Health & Fitness
Solution to Will County Heroin Epidemic Needed
Manley supports the creation of the task force to aid local organizations in the fight to protect communities affected by the recent spike in heroin usage in Will County.
To address the dramatic increase in Will County heroin usage and consequent deaths in recent years, State Rep. Natalie Manley (D-Joliet) has taken an important step forward by passing legislation to help local agencies and law enforcement curb the heroin epidemic.
“This bill will serve as a necessary resource for our social service agencies, educational institutions, and local law enforcement agencies who are welcoming a thorough, effective, and collaborative plan for protecting our children and neighbors from harmful, destructive drugs, such as heroin,” Manley said. “In order to make the most impact, we must possess a strong understanding of the problem, educate the public on the issue, and work together for the benefit of our area’s safety and well-being.”
House Bill 946 creates the Young Adults Heroin Use Task Force to diagnose the heroin use problem in high schools. The task force will work with the Illinois State Board of Education to suggest programs aimed at curbing usage. Manley supports the creation of the task force to aid local organizations in the fight to protect communities affected by the recent spike in heroin usage in Will County.
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After hearing about the bill’s passage out of the House, Will County Executive Larry Walsh commented, “This news couldn’t come at a better time as we look to work in collaboration with our partners and public officials to inform parents and students about the dangers of heroin use. I am pleased Representative Natalie Manley has taken up this issue to create a task force, developing a plan on how best to move forward.”
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Pete McLenighan, the Executive Director of Stepping Stones, a Joliet based alcohol and substance abuse treatment organization applauded this important first step by saying, “We greatly appreciate the leadership of Representative Natalie Manley by taking an active approach and assisting with state resources to develop a comprehensive plan to wage a successful battle against heroin in our communities.”
House Bill 946 will now be considered in the Senate. For more information, please contact Rep. Manley by email at RepManley@gmail.com or by phone at (815) 725-2741.
