South Cook News

Patricia Bonk, a candidate for House District 30, has recently drawn attention to the escalating issue of fentanyl overdoses and poisonings. Through a statement on her official Facebook page, she underscored the urgent need for legislative action to confront the fentanyl crisis that is taking lives across the United States.

“Fentanyl overdoses and ‘poisonings’ (unintended consumption of fentanyl due to drugs laced with fentanyl) should be an issue addressed by our legislators,” Bonk said on Facebook. “There is enough fentanyl coming over our borders to kill every citizen in this country and, in 2022, it was the leading cause of death in those between the ages of 18-45.”

“To address this issue, we need involvement from legal, medical and governmental disciplines. As an ER nurse, I have taken care of patients who suffered with drug addiction. As your State Representative, I vow to work on this issue.”

The Chicago Tribune reports that the United States is wrestling with a severe fentanyl crisis. This situation has led to calls for a comprehensive supply chain strategy to hinder the illicit flow of this potent synthetic opioid. Although China has consented to limit fentanyl exports, there is a growing demand for a global approach to effectively tackle the crisis. Fentanyl overdoses have become a leading cause of death among young Americans, signaling the potential for a worldwide epidemic.

Bonk is not only a registered nurse but also has experience as an emergency responder and firefighter for the Villages of Lemont and Northwest Homer. Currently serving as a Trustee on the Midlothian Library Board and actively participating in the Midlothian policing committee, Bonk's commitment extends beyond her professional life. As a cancer survivor herself, she leads teams at South Suburban Cancer Walk, as per her website.

House District 30 in Illinois encompasses the communities of Dolton, South Holland, Harvey, Markham, Oak Forest, Midlothian, and Homewood along with parts of Tinley Park and Olympia Fields. The district is currently represented by State Rep. Will Davis (D-Homewood). According to Ballotpedia, Davis has held his role for two decades and plans to run for another term representing District 30.