Illinois Republicans demand stricter measures to stop fentanyl in prisons after nine inmate overdose deaths.

Illinois Republican lawmakers are pressuring the state's Department of Corrections to stop drugs, especially fentanyl, from entering prisons. At least nine inmates have died from overdoses since May, and IDOC is considering measures like enhanced mail screening and protective equipment for staff. Republicans urge more drastic actions, such as halting physical mail, due to concerns over drug-laced paper being smoked by inmates. Senators have called for a new director and criticized Governor Pritzker's response as inadequate.

November 27, 2024
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