Bill > HR0565

This resolution strongly urges the Illinois Emergency Management Agency - Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) to update radiation protection regulations to allow Enhanced Radiation Protection Systems (ERPS) in medical facilities. The resolution highlights the ongoing health risks faced by medical professionals who routinely wear heavy lead aprons during fluoroscopic procedures, which can cause chronic orthopedic injuries like back pain and joint degeneration. Currently affecting between 10,000 and 12,000 Illinois healthcare workers, the existing administrative code requires wearable protective garments, effectively prohibiting "lead-free" intervention labs. The new ERPS technology offers non-wearable, externally mounted radiation shielding that provides equivalent protection to traditional lead aprons while eliminating long-term health risks. The resolution notes that other states like Michigan, Colorado, and Florida have already updated their regulations to accommodate ERPS, and it is supported by the Illinois Chapter of the American College of Cardiology and other medical organizations. By adopting these changes, the resolution argues that Illinois can better protect healthcare professionals, reduce workplace injuries, and maintain high safety standards while aligning with peer jurisdictions. The resolution requests that a copy be delivered to the IEMA-OHS Director, the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, and the Governor of Illinois.

Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=565&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104