Lauryn Russell Lyme Disease Prevention Bill Closer To Becoming Law

The “Lauryn Russell Lyme Disease Prevention & Protection Law” just needs Governor Bruce Rauner’s signature. The legislation—named after 12 year old Mercer County student Lauryn Russell, was introduced by local State Representative Dan Swanson of Alpha.

Advocates for Lyme Disease sufferers say the current recommended treatment of the disease, 10 to 21 days of antibiotics, is insufficient for people with advanced or chronic levels of the disease.  Nine states have enacted similar legislation including: Iowa, California, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Virginia. The bill was approved in the Illinois House on a vote of 103-2 with the measure winning unanimous support in the State Senate.