SPRINGFIELD – Efforts to address the opioid epidemic are amplified thanks to new law championed by State Senator Karina Villa.
“As a former school social worker, I have seen firsthand the connection social workers have with communities impacted by the opioid epidemic,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “We must use every resource available to continue fighting this tragic epidemic.”
The new law allows licensed clinical social workers and licensed social workers to carry and administer opioid antagonists. Employers of social workers are required to provide training and establish a policy to control the acquisition, storage, transportation and administration of opioid antagonists.
The Opioid Data Dashboard highlights the number of fatal overdoses throughout the state, with cases occurring in almost every county in Illinois. Social workers often encounter individuals at risk of experiencing an overdose while practicing in a variety of settings, and authorizing them to administer opioid antagonists would prevent future fatalities.
“The risk of opioid overdose affects all demographics and ages,” said Villa. “Social workers have the experience and work closely with individuals at risk, which makes them essential in combating this crisis.”
Senate Bill 3779 was signed on Friday and is goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.
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