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New Illinois bill would give parents final say on psychotropic drugs for kids

By FOX 32 Digital Staff
Published  February 5, 2025 12:30pm CST
Illinois
FOX 32 Chicago

The Brief

    • A proposed bill in Illinois would require doctors to provide printed FDA Medication Guides and obtain written, informed consent from parents before prescribing psychotropic medications to children.
    • A new online system would allow parents to report adverse drug reactions, increasing transparency and holding healthcare providers accountable.
    • Healthcare providers who fail to comply could face Medicaid reimbursement suspensions, while the Department of Healthcare and Family Services would be required to submit quarterly reports on adverse drug reactions to the legislature.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - An Illinois lawmaker is pushing a new bill that would ensure parents have the final say before their kids are prescribed psychotropic medications.

House Bill 2512

What we know:

State Rep. Jed Davis says the proposed bill would require doctors to provide parents with printed FDA Medication Guides before prescribing psychotropic drugs to children.

Under the legislation, parents must give written, informed consent before any prescription is issued.

The bill also calls for a new online system where parents can report adverse drug reactions, aiming to improve accountability and transparency.

Healthcare providers who fail to comply could face Medicaid reimbursement suspensions, while the Department of Healthcare and Family Services may face financial penalties for missing reporting requirements.

Additionally, the department would be required to compile and submit quarterly reports on adverse drug reactions to the legislature.

What they're saying:

Davis shared his thoughts on the bill, saying:

"Parents – not bureaucrats – should be making medical decisions for their kids. Informed consent is critical, especially when we’re talking about powerful medications with potentially serious, life-altering side effects."

This bill is about protecting kids, preventing government negligence, and ensuring parents are fully informed. While these medications can be beneficial, they also come with risks. Parents deserve to know the facts and make the best decision for their child - without interference."

What's next:

For more information about Rep. Davis or this bill, visit RepJedDavis.com.

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