Tell Illinois Legislators: Stop Dangerous Chemical Agents and Protect Public Health
Illinois' State Lawmakers
The passage of the BREATHE Act is critically important because it addresses a profound and ongoing threat to public health and safety in Illinois by seeking to end the indiscriminate and harmful use of chemical irritants like tear gas on our communities. These agents are not benign; they cause severe, documented harm including permanent respiratory damage, miscarriages, and chemical burns, affecting not just protesters but vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
By prohibiting dangerous agents, establishing independent oversight and rigorous safety testing, and removing legal shields that prevent accountability, the BREATHE Act offers a necessary and proactive framework to protect all residents. Furthermore, as demonstrated by law enforcement's successful management of major events without these chemicals, such measures are not only essential for public health but are a viable and effective alternative to practices that endanger the very communities they are meant to serve.
Sponsored by
To:
Illinois' State Lawmakers
From:
[Your Name]
Chemical irritant agents like tear gas and unregulated pepper spray are destroying lives across Illinois. These dangerous substances cause:
* Permanent respiratory damage
* Miscarriages
* Vision impairment
* Chemical burns
* Severe injuries to vulnerable community members
The BREATHE Act will change this by:
* Prohibiting dangerous tear gas deployments
* Creating strict safety standards for chemical agents
* Holding agencies accountable for harmful exposures
* Protecting our most vulnerable community members
We Demand Action Now:
1. Pass the Building Remedies to End Abusive Tear Gas and Harmful Exposures (BREATHE) Act
2. Establish a Chemical Agent Review Board with expert oversight
3. Require rigorous safety testing for all chemical irritant agents
4. Create a transparent public reporting system
5. Remove legal protections that shield agencies from accountability
Chemical agents don't just impact protesters or demonstrators - they harm entire communities. From elderly individuals to children, from people with pre-existing conditions to everyday citizens, these agents pose an unacceptable risk to public health.
The Evidence is Clear:
* Illinois law enforcement has proven effective crowd management is possible without tear gas
* The Chicago Police Department successfully managed major events like the 2024 Democratic National Convention without using chemical agents
Your Signature Can Make a Difference:
By signing, you're standing up for public health, community safety, and human rights. We can stop harmful chemical agent practices and protect our communities.
Add your name to demand comprehensive protections for all Illinois residents!