IL HR0248

Urges county sheriffs across Illinois to implement standard medical protocols for monitoring and treatment of individuals experiencing withdrawal while incarcerated, including medically assisted detoxification to reduce pain, serious medical incidents, and deaths.

Calls on local municipalities, county boards, and the State to provide fiscal support for personnel, medications, and supplies necessary to enable sheriffs to provide detoxification services in jails.

Cites that an estimated 2 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. have substance use disorders related to prescription opioids, with 52,404 drug overdose deaths in 2015 (63% opioid-related), and Illinois experiencing a 22% increase in heroin-related deaths between 2013-2014.

Notes that only 11% of incarcerated individuals with substance use disorders receive professional treatment while in custody, and fewer than 1% receive detoxification services, despite federal and international guidelines recommending such care.

Directs that copies of the resolution be distributed to all county sheriffs and county board presidents in Illinois.