SR0747 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0747 LRB104 21564 LAW 36977 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Each October, National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month is observed to highlight the critical need to prevent young people from initiating substance use; and

WHEREAS, In 2024, 9% of eighth graders, 16.9% of tenth graders, and 26.2% of twelfth graders reported using illegal substances in the past year, reflecting young lives full of promise, yet facing obstacles; and

WHEREAS, The adolescent brain, still developing until age 25, is particularly vulnerable to the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol, and early substance use significantly increases the likelihood of developing substance use disorders, mental health difficulties, and long-term health consequences; and

WHEREAS, When youth engage in substance use, the impact extends beyond the individual, affecting families, schools, and entire communities through reduced academic performance, increased behavioral problems, and heightened safety concerns; and

WHEREAS, Prevention efforts enhance protective factors and minimize risks in individuals, families, schools, communities, and society at large, and prevention professionals play a vital role in protecting youth by implementing evidence-based strategies that delay substance use initiation while building protective factors; and

WHEREAS, Effective prevention includes early detection and intervention for vulnerable adolescents, comprehensive support networks connecting families, schools, healthcare providers, and communities, and expanding availability to prevention services to ensure all youth receive necessary resources and support; and

WHEREAS, Successful prevention also focuses on strengthening protective factors such as mentorship programs, family engagement, skill-building activities, and creating safe community environments where young people can thrive; and

WHEREAS, By working collaboratively, families, schools, healthcare professionals, and communities can reduce risk factors, enhance protective elements, and build healthier futures for our youth; and

WHEREAS, As the future of our nation, America's young people deserve the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare October 2026 as Youth Substance Use Prevention Month in the State of Illinois to bring awareness to youth substance use and to provide the youth of Illinois with the support they need to lead healthy lives and achieve their dreams.