Illinois could allow medication abortion in the state even if the FDA repeals authorization

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A state Democratic plan would allow reproductive healthcare drugs to stay in Illinois even if the FDA repeals authorization.

Under possible rollbacks of certain drugs by the FDA, if a medication is repealed, Illinois could still allow the medicine to be prescribed if it is approved by the World Health Organization.

"Healthcare should never be politicized," state Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago) said. "When we uplift healthcare providers we are ensuring the patients receive equitable, healthy and safe care in a timely and professional manner by qualified providers."

The bill saw pushback by Senate Republicans. State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) said the FDA is the highest presiding body when it comes to medication.

"To depend on the World Health Organization whose highest contributors and funding come from China seems very illogical to me," Tracy said.

Telehealth companies would also be protected under this plan. If a telehealth company gives healthcare advice to a caller out of state that breaks that state's law, the company would not face any penalties.

This proposal passed out of the Senate on a partisan 38-19 vote. It will now head back to the House on concurrence due to an amendment.