Illinois lawmakers are once again advancing legislation that raises serious constitutional and civil liberty concerns. During a recent radio interview, State Representative Bill Hauter (R-Morton) — a physician and legislator — warned that House Bill 4596, dubbed the “Health Misinformation Act,” will empower government agencies to police speech, recruit and train “trusted messengers,” and potentially impose civil or criminal penalties for statements officials deem “misinformation.”
The bill is sponsored by State Representatives Dave Vella (D-Rockford) and Laura Faver Dias (D-Grayslake).
Critics say the proposal takes an especially troubling turn by authorizing what the bill describes as “health misinformation response units,” tasked with responding to speech that the government considers inaccurate and deploying government-trained “trusted messengers” to promote state-approved narratives. Dr. Hauter suggests that such language evokes an Orwellian model of information control, in which government authorities—not citizens, physicians, or open debate—become the arbiters of what is deemed true, permissible, or punishable in matters of public health.
Violations would violate the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act and could result in fines up to $2,500, and for subsequent violations, up to $25K and 5 years in prison. Big Brother means business!
Supporters say the measure targets harmful medical falsehoods, yet we are concerned about how it could be weaponized, compel speech, and promote godless government-directed narratives — particularly on disputed medical and moral issues. Would it criminalize religious and/or conscience objections to vaccines? How might it be used during the next public-health “emergency” and are they preparing for another one?
Watch and listen to this interview with the only medical doctor in the House, State Representative Bill Hauter, by Jeanne Ives and Amy Jacobson — then decide for yourself.
Take ACTION: Click HERE to urge your state representative to oppose HB 4596 and the creation of a government “Health Misinformation Response Unit.” Our state government should not enact laws limiting speech — especially on controversial and highly debated medical issues. Moreover, the possibility of partisans weaponizing a so-called “response unit” is chilling.
Laws that affect free speech and conscience demand your voice!
