NW Illinois News

A new law in Illinois will require the Department of Corrections (IDOC) to publish annual reports on contraband, substance use, overdoses, and medical responses inside state correctional facilities. Senate Bill 2201, which was signed into law on August 15 and takes effect July 1, 2026, is intended to increase transparency about ongoing issues within the prison system.

The bill was sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers during the spring legislative session. Under its provisions, IDOC must collect and post online data about contraband found in facilities. This includes information on where items were discovered, how they entered the facility, what type of item was involved, and any disciplinary actions taken. The department will also track data on substance use disorder treatment and educational programming.

In addition to reporting on contraband and drug use, the legislation requires IDOC to provide information about naloxone usage as well as emergency medical responses and hospitalizations.

Republican lawmakers have recently criticized IDOC for its handling of drug use and contraband issues that affect both staff and inmates. They say these new requirements are designed to give lawmakers and the public a clearer understanding of challenges within the prison system.

State Senator Li Arellano Jr., who was elected in 2025 to represent Illinois' 37th Senate District [source], expressed support for the new law but called for additional reforms. "While State Senator Li Arellano Jr views the new law as a step in the right direction, he argues that more must be done by the Administration to prioritize urgent reforms within the Department of Corrections and ensure Illinois correctional facilities can operate safely and securely."