Public Health
As a physician-led organization, the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) works with our members to advocate for the health, rights, and well-being of Illinois patients. With quality patient care in mind, physicians guide ISMS policy and action with regulators, legislators, and insurance companies.
There are many issues important to the health of Illinois patients, which is why patients, physicians and medical groups rely on ISMS to BE HEARD in Illinois. We accomplish this through our numerous councils and committees, and by working with various stakeholders throughout Illinois to lead and coordinate on public health messaging, awareness and education campaigns, and by crafting resources for physicians, patients, and their practices.
ISMS has worked on these initiatives related to public health, including but not limited to:
Tobacco Use: ISMS supported legislation to raise the smoking age in Illinois to 21, which includes including electronic cigarettes, and supported legislation banning smoking in cars when minors are present.
Legalization of Adult Use Cannabis: As a direct result of ISMS’ advocacy, 11 crucial patient safety provisions were included in the law. These protections, among other things, included labeling requirements, maximum THC levels, anti-contamination standards, advertising restrictions and local control.
To see ISMS’ specific work on more public health issues, please view the end of session legislative reports.
Currently Tracked Bills
ISMS Supports
Ban on Flavored Tobacco: SB 3854 (Sponsor: Sen. Julie A. Morrison) - Senate Bill 3854 an ISMS initiative, would ban the sale of all flavored tobacco, including menthol flavored tobacco products. The easy availability of menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars, flavored hookah and youth-friendly e-cigarette candy-like flavors is causing an increase in youth tobacco use of epic proportions. This bill has not received a committee assignment.
Set 10% THC limit on cannabis being cultivated, produced, or sold: HB 4709 (Sponsor: Rep. Mark Batinick) - House Bill 4709 ( amends the Cannabis Regulation Act and provides that a cannabis flower with greater than 10% THC, cannabis concentrate with greater than 15% THC, and a cannabis-infused product with greater than 15% THC are prohibited and may not be cultivated, produced, or sold. The legalization of recreational cannabis has resulted in an increase in traffic accidents throughout the state and has led to adverse effects in the form of cardiac, neurological and psychiatric issues. This bill has not received a committee assignment.
Related Resources
