Pilot program puts drug test in hands of Chicago police

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - A House panel on Wednesday backed a proposed pilot program that would allow Chicago police to use a field test to determine whether a recovered substance is marijuana, cocaine or heroin.

Chicago police Superintendent Garry McCarthy would be responsible for creating the program, under the bill that passed the House Judiciary Committee 15-0. Backers of the legislation said the test is easy to use and could expand to other departments if successful in Chicago.

State Rep. John Anthony, a Republican from Plainfield, who is a co-sponsor of the measure, called it a "much-needed tool" for officers." He said the test help speeds up the time it takes for testing drugs and gets a defendant in front of a judge sooner.

McCarthy, Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez and the director of the Cook County Department of Corrections also will be responsible to keeping track of the number of days each defendant in custody as part of the program and report to the pilot program's study committee, if the bill is signed into law.

The House Judiciary also passed a measure that would provide immunity from criminal charges when they call 911 for someone they know is suffering from alcohol poisoning. Proponents said those under the age of 21 fear being arrested and refuse to seek help for friends in need treatment. The bill requires that the person cooperate with police in order to be eligible for immunity from charges.

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The bills are HB356 and HB1336.

Online: http://www.ilga.gov/