Prescription drug overdoses have tripled since 1990. Legislation aimed at reducing that problem in Illinois is awaiting the governor’s signature.
The bill that cleared the Illinois House this week creates a one-year pilot program of locking caps on prescription opioid painkillers. The locks will be similar to common gym locks.
If Governor Bruce Rauner signs the bill, the state Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will supervise the program with participating pharmacies throughout the state.
State Representative Michael Zalewski (D-Riverside), the bill's chief sponsor, says it’s another way to help solve the growth in painkiller addiction in Illinois.
