A new law recently signed into effect seeks to increase transparency in Illinois Department of Corrections facilities by requiring the agency to publish annual reports on contraband, substance use, overdoses, and medical responses.

Senate Bill 2201, sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers and passed during the spring legislative session, aims to provide the public with clearer insight into ongoing challenges inside the state’s correctional system.

Under the new law, IDOC must collect and post online data about contraband, including where it was discovered, how it entered a facility, the type of item, and any disciplinary actions taken. The department must also track substance use disorder treatment and educational programming.

The legislation further mandates reporting on the use of naloxone and requires IDOC to publish information on emergency medical responses and hospitalizations.

In light of recent issues within IDOC, where Republican lawmakers have been critical of the department’s handling of drug use and contraband that have left staff and inmates vulnerable, Senate Republicans say the new reporting requirements are intended to increase transparency and give both lawmakers and the public a clearer understanding of the challenges facing the prison system.

While Senate Republicans view the new law as a step in the right direction, they argue 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.

Senate Bill 2201 was signed into law on August 15 and takes effect July 1, 2026.