CD CORR-DRUG SCREENING

104th Regular Session Introduced by Jason Plummer

The bill requires initial drug screening for every offender in Illinois DOC custody and allows targeted treatment based on results, with rules to be adopted.

Summary of SB3988 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and intent

The bill adds a new provision to the Unified Code of Corrections requiring drug screening for all offenders committed to a Department of Corrections facility.

It authorizes the Department to provide appropriate drug treatment services to certain offenders based on the results of the initial screening.

The Department would be responsible for adopting rules to implement the new drug screening program.

Key provisions

New statutory section: 5-8-1.4 (in 730 ILCS 5)

Drug screening requirement: The Department of Corrections shall require drug screening of every offender committed to a Department facility.
Treatment authorizing: Based on initial screening results, the Department may provide appropriate drug treatment services to certain offenders.
Rulemaking: The Department shall adopt rules to implement the section.

Affected entities and individuals

Primary affected entity: Illinois Department of Corrections.

Offenders: Any person committed to an Illinois Department facility would be subject to initial drug screening.

Potential beneficiaries: Offenders who screen positive or otherwise identified as in need of treatment may receive drug treatment services, depending on screening results.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill establishes a framework for screening and treatment but does not specify:

The exact screening methods or tests to be used.
The frequency or timing of screening (beyond “initial” screening).
Specific treatment modalities, durations, or funding mechanisms.
Penalties or consequences tied to screening results.

The Department is required to adopt rules to implement the new section, which will determine operational details, timelines, and compliance expectations.

Practical impact and considerations

Public safety and rehabilitation aims: By screening all offenders and offering treatment based on results, the bill seeks to identify substance use issues and connect offenders with treatment, potentially supporting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.

Resource implications: Implementation will require resources for screening tools, staff, training, and treatment services, as well as ongoing rulemaking.

Implementation timeline: Key details (methods, funding, and schedule) will be defined in the Department’s forthcoming rules.

Sponsor

Primary Sponsor: Sen. Jason Plummer

Co-sponsor: None listed beyond the sponsor in the provided text

If you would like, I can add a brief comparison to existing Illinois drug treatment or screening programs, or draft potential questions for stakeholders (Corrections, public health, and victim/advocate groups) to address in hearings.