SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A new Illinois law is creating a statewide drug take-back program.
The goal of the program is to keep unused medications out of the hands of kids, those who might abuse prescription drugs, and water supplies.
The measure was sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine.
“This bill provides an alternative, by establishing a statewide program to provide for the safe and secure collection and disposal of medication, Illinois would be a lead on product stewardship,” Fine said.
Some counties and pharmacies, including those here in Central Illinois, already offer some sort of take back collection, but this will be the first statewide initiative.
“The Drug Take-Back Act establishes a statewide convenience standard, and authorizes collection sites, as well as consumer education, to ensure that people understand that they can drop off or mail back unused, or unwanted drugs,” Fine said.
It will be the responsibility of pharmaceutical companies to get the program set up.
