Time running out to enact law regulating plastic surgery

SPRINGFIELD -- Legislation designed to place more stringent medical restrictions on the cosmetic surgery profession in the wake of hip-hop star Kanye West's mother's death may be running out of time at the Capitol.

The proposals, introduced by state Rep. Monique Davis, a Chicago Democrat, would require that board-certified plastic surgeons perform Botox injections and several other procedures, making it illegal for assistants, other medical staff or even medical doctors outside the plastic surgery specialty to do them. A second proposal requires plastic surgeons be affiliated with an accredited hospital or university in order to practice. Violations could result in felony convictions and prison time.

The proposals were slated for possible debate by a legislative committee Tuesday but never taken up. Friday marks the deadline for such proposals to clear Illinois House committees so they can advance to the full House.

Donda West died in November in the Los Angeles area, a day after undergoing a series of cosmetic operations that included a breast reduction, liposuction and a tummy tuck, according to news accounts. A coroner could not determine her exact cause of death.