Mussman Backed Law Aims to Save Lives from Opioid Overdoses with Educational Website

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new law co-sponsored by state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, requires the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) to create and maintain a website to educate the public on heroin and prescription opioid abuse.

“The opioid epidemic is devastating families across the country, regardless of where they live or what their income level is,” Mussman said. “Illinois is not immune to this crisis, and we must give every family the ability to combat this disease. By teaching everyone about the signs of an opioid addiction, families can be better prepared to recognize what the symptoms are and know how to educate their children about this epidemic.”

House Bill 3161 requires IDHS’s website to include information on the warning signs of heroin and prescription opioid addiction, helpful hints for parents on how to discuss the dangers of heroin and prescription opioid addiction with their children, and information on available treatment options and services. It will also list a toll-free number that residents can call if they have questions about substance abuse and treatment. Mussman wants to be sure that the public is adequately educated on what the symptoms of heroin and opioid abuse are to prevent future lives from being lost to this painful epidemic.

“Far too often, people who are struggling with a heroin or opioid addiction do not get the help that they need, resulting in a high number of overdoses,” said Mussman. “By helping families know the signs of an addiction, they can get their loved one help before it is too late.”

For more information, please contact Mussman’s full-time constituent service office at 847-923-9104 or by email at StateRepMussman@gmail.com.