IBD/Ally's Law Awareness Day in Illinois

I know I should probably know, but could you explain a little about what Ally's Law is about?

Thanks!

Thank you!

Ally's Law states that any retail establishment with three or more employees present must allow a customer with a medical emergency access to their private restroom. The history is that a large retail store in Norridge wouldn't let Ally use their private washroom when she was in a flare. The manager said that he was "making a managerial decision." Ally was 14 at the time. When we walked out of the store, Ally and I decided something needed to be done.

We contacted our local State Representative and the media and within a year, the Restroom Access Act, otherwise known as Ally's Law was created.   It has passed in Minnesota and Texas and is pending in about 12 or more states.

Thanks for asking.

Lisa

Ideally you will hear back from one of the legislators that is being contacted. The next step would be to set up a meeting about why this legislation is so important and needed. At the meeting, bring information about Ally's Law such as the actual wording, information about IBD and statistics of how many people have Crohn's or colitis, states that have already passed it or who have it pending, specific instances or places where access has been denied, your contact information, etc. It's always nice to follow up with thank you notes. Find out what the next steps are and make sure you stay in contact with them.

I believe many legislative sessions are coming to an end, but you can get things going for when the session starts again in the Fall.

Within the past month I have spoken with people in WA, OR, TN, WI who have recently held a meeting with their legislator. The bill is pending in many more states in various stages of legislation.

I'm definitely willing to help with any questions. Thank you for your involvement!  

RobynO,

That would be fantastic. Let me know!

Lisa

RobynO,

Hopefully things will work out and you will be able to come to Springfield. We're setting up meetings with legislators so if you are going and you would like to meet your legislator, please let me know.

Thanks,

Lisa