Peters measure to expand access to fentanyl testing clears General Assembly

Springfield - A measure to help medical professionals get more tests into the hands of individuals who battle opioid addiction cleared the General Assembly thanks to State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago). 

“This measure will help save lives,” Peters said. “We still have a long way to go, but removing these penalties is a responsible way to address the opioid crisis and to create real public safety for all instead of continuing the misguided policies of the past.” 

House Bill 4556 is designed to expand on a 2019 law, the Overdose Prevention and Harm Reduction Act, which authorized government agencies and non-governmental organizations to create needle and hypodermic syringe exchange programs.  This measure would increase the number of persons and professions in the medical community who would not be penalized for possessing a limited residual amount of a controlled substance as part of the drug testing process. 

Additionally, the supplies would be required to be stored at a medical office with limited access and would be available to designated workers such as an advanced practice registered nurse or physician assistant.  

“We need to ensure that all communities in our state are protected and that they know what is going into their body,” Peters said, “I’m glad that the General Assembly is taking this important step to make sure that people will not be left to the wolves of the fentanyl overdose crisis.” 

The measure passed the Senate on Thursday.

Peters applauds confirmation of the Honorable Ketanji Brown-Jackson to the Supreme Court

Springfield -  The historic vote to confirm the Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court will bring one of the most able and qualified jurists to the nation’s highest court. State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago), the Senate chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement:

“Justice Brown Jackson is one of the most, if not the most, qualified jurist to be appointed to our nation’s highest court. She is a symbol of hope and progress for our nation and will be an advocate for equal justice under the law.”

“This is a historic appointment and I am overwhelmed with gratitude knowing that Black girls throughout Illinois and the nation will have a role model to know that they too can aspire to our nation’s high court and beyond.”

Sen. Peters talks about new initiatives toward reporting crimes.

Sen. Peters stands in solidarity for transgender visibility.