Lawmakers OK bill pardoning underage drinkers who call 911

SPRINGFIELD — 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 Tuesday, which means it’ll be sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner. The Republican hasn’t indicated whether he’ll sign it.

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

Two dozen other states have enacted similar legislation.

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The bill is HB1336

Full Text of HB1336