Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Government Relations Director Ally Lopshire
SPRINGFIELD, IL– “As lawmakers dive into the 2025 legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) urges legislators to prioritize passing legislation to ease the burden of cancer on Illinoisans.
“As Gov. Pritzker and lawmakers kick off the budget process, ACS CAN calls on the legislature to prioritize funding for colorectal cancer screening in the state. Currently, the colorectal and lung cancer screening programs are jointly funded at $2 million annually. ACS CAN is asking that $1 million be solely dedicated to colorectal cancer screenings to help more Illinoisans detect and treat colorectal cancer early when treatment is more effective and less expensive, and the funding could support related patient navigation services.
“Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States among men and women combined. Here in Illinois, in 2024, an estimated 6,140 residents were diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 2,090 passed away. Fortunately, colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented through screenings. Studies have shown that colorectal screenings reduce the number of cases by 40% and mortality by 60%.
“Additionally, ACS CAN will advocate for legislation to bring about tax parity for all tobacco products in Illinois, including e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, cigars and all other tobacco products. Ensuring tax parity among all tobacco products and increasing the price of such products through regular and significant tobacco tax increases will not only help prevent kids from starting to use tobacco but also provide support to people who are trying to quit. A portion of the revenue from the tobacco tax increase should be used to fund and sustain fact-based, statewide tobacco prevention and programs to help those already addicted quit.
“Everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer -- regardless of race, ethnicity, income, gender, sexual orientation or zip code. By increasing funding for colorectal cancer screenings as well as bringing parity to all tobacco taxes, state lawmakers have an opportunity to help save lives and lessen the burden of a cancer diagnosis for those who will hear the words, ‘You have cancer’ in the future.”