High school senior helps draft bill requiring Narcan in Illinois public libraries

CHICAGO (WGN) — A new state proposal would require public libraries across Illinois to keep medications that can reverse an opioid overdose, such as Narcan, on hand in case of a medical emergency. 

Illinois Math and Science Academy senior Jordan Henry and Illinois State Rep. Anna Moeller worked together to draft the legislation. Both joined WGN’s Evening News at 6 p.m. Wednesday to further detail their efforts. 

Henry said her advocacy stems from issues plaguing her community.  

“What really got me into this was hearing so many stories,” Henry told WGN’s Ray Cortopassi. “Saying how they had a loved one, or a friend, or a parent, who has had an opioid overdose and so many fatalities within my community.”

Addressing the push for Illinois libraries to carry Narcan, Rep. Moeller told WGN News that the bill awaits a Public Health Committee hearing. Moeller remains optimistic that the meeting will occur as early as next week.  

“We’re hopeful that we’ll have bi-partisan support because we know that this epidemic affects all parts of the state, including rural and southern Illinois and could really benefit and save lives in those areas as well,” Moeller said. “Once the bill passes out of the House, we have a sponsor in the Senate, and then it would go on to the Governor’s Office.” 

Henry and Moeller said talks remain ongoing with several state agencies concerning the bill.  

Watch the entire interview in the video player above.