SPRINGFIELD – Families dealing with substance use disorder face many uncertainties. When a loved one is in treatment, their families hope they are in the safest place possible. In the unfortunate event of an unexpected death, families and caregivers deserve timely notice of their loved one’s passing. Thanks to a bill spearheaded by State Senator Laura Fine, mental health facilities and substance abuse programs will now be required to provide transparent communication regarding a patient’s death.

“It is heartbreaking to lose a loved one, and it is unconscionable that there would be a delay in notification,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “No family should experience this unnecessary pain.”

Jordan’s Law is named in honor of an Evanston family who shared their story about their son, Jordan, who passed away while in a rehab facility. The family was not immediately notified of their son’s death. To ensure no other family would have to experience this, Jordan’s law will require substance abuse disorder programs and mental health and developmental disability facilities to notify a patient’s personal representative of their death within 24 hours and provide a written notice within five days.

“Out of respect for families and guardians, they should be promptly notified when their loved one passes,” said Fine. “This strength of Jordan’s family will ensure that no one else experiences the same tragic situation.”

Senate Bill 3137 was signed into law Friday and is effective immediately.