McLean County Times

On July 21, a Facebook Live End of Session Town Hall will be held at 6:00 p.m. State Representatives Dennis Tipsword and Jason R. Bunting will join the event to discuss the spring legislative session, share updates from Springfield, and answer questions from the public. Attendees are encouraged to submit their questions ahead of time through a provided form.

A new law aimed at lowering prescription costs and protecting local pharmacies was signed on July 1. House Bill 1697 addresses issues related to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) by ending spread pricing, prohibiting PBMs from directing patients to preferred pharmacies, and ensuring that rebates go back to patients and plan sponsors. The Illinois Pharmacists Association has highlighted concerns about pharmacy deserts in the state, with Senate Republicans noting the closure of over 85 independent pharmacies in Illinois during 2024 alone.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued guidelines for avoiding seasonal summer hazards such as sunburn, heat exhaustion, and water-related injuries. Recommendations include supervising children around water, using flotation devices, applying sunscreen regularly, staying hydrated, and avoiding leaving individuals or pets in parked vehicles. Additional resources can be found on IDPH's website for water safety tips and heat safety precautions.

Drivers are advised to exercise caution at rural intersections due to reduced visibility caused by tall cornfields along roadsides during summer months.