SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Karina Villa will address increased congenital syphilis cases in Illinois.

“This law upholds best practices to mitigate the alarming trend of rising congenital syphilis cases across Illinois,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “We must continue to support the health and safety of an expecting parent and their child every way we can.”

The law requires the second syphilis test conducted on pregnant individuals to be done between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy to ensure treatment can begin at least 30 days before delivery. The law also expands authorization to administer the test to health care professionals who are qualified in addition to physicians.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, congenital syphilis cases have increased by 255% since 2020. In 2023, 103 cases were reported across the state compared to 29 cases in 2020.

“Congenital syphilis poses serious health risks to pregnant individuals and their children,” said Villa. “The earlier it is caught, the better it can be treated.”

Senate Bill 119 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026. 

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