With an influx of illicit drugs flooding in to correctional facilities, Illinois Senate Republicans are calling on Governor JB Pritzker to act urgently to address the crisis. On November 26th, members of the Senate Republican Caucus held a press conference to highlight ongoing concerns and share firsthand accounts from their visits to correctional facilities across Illinois.

Over the past two years, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) has faced escalating drug-related issues, including contraband entering through mail, staff exposure to dangerous substances, and a rise in overdoses and fatalities across 20 facilities statewide. Lawmakers argue that the current administration has failed to implement effective solutions to address these systemic issues.

To combat the crisis, lawmakers are advocating for the implementation of digitized mail as part of a multi-layered strategy to curtail contraband. While acknowledging that this measure alone won’t eliminate the demand for drugs, they emphasize its importance as a crucial step toward broader reforms. They contend that the safety and well-being of correctional officers and inmates depend on comprehensive measures and robust leadership.

Lawmakers are calling on Governor Pritzker to prioritize urgent reforms within IDOC. They stress that immediate action is necessary to ensure Illinois correctional facilities can operate safely and securely.