DECATUR, IL… State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) released the following statement upon the Governor signing SB 1288, a measure she recently guided through the legislature:
“I’m proud we were able to get this important measure across to the finish line to ensure individuals who have celiac disease are not at risk of exposure to gluten when enjoying a meal out,” said Rep. Deering. “Adding language about how to safely handle gluten-free foods to the Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act is crucial to many individuals here in Illinois and I was happy to carry this bill for Senator Sally Turner. Passing small but groundbreaking legislation such as SB 1288 is why I came to Springfield—to make a difference, no matter how big or small it may seem.”
SB 1288 requires food handler licensees to complete a program on celiac disease and on safe handling of gluten-free foods. The legislation ensures that those handling food understand the nature and symptoms of the disease, the importance of gluten-free handling for individuals with celiac disease, methods to prevent cross-contamination, proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures, and the importance of labeling and identifying gluten-free products.
The bill passed unanimously out of both the House and Senate and was filed by Senator Sally Turner. SB 1288 is Rep. Deering’s first bill passed and signed by the Governor.
To learn more about the bill, visit ILGA.gov.