SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – Illinois lawmakers have approved legislation that would grant amnesty to underage drinkers who call 911 to get help.

The plan would provide legal protection to the person in need of medical help and the person who called on their behalf. The legislation would also grant police officers discretion to determine whether amnesty is appropriate to the situation.

The House approved the measure with a final vote yesterday, which means it will be sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner. The Governor has not indicated whether he will sign it.

One of the sponsors is State Rep. Kelly Cassidy. She says it is modeled after similar legislation addressing heroin overdoses. She says it signals to parents and young people that it is safe to do the right thing.

Two dozen other states have enacted similar legislation.

 

 

 

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