SPRINGFIELD – To improve access to information about human papillomavirus (HPV) for young people in Illinois, State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) passed legislation through the Illinois Senate earlier today.

Holmes’ measure, Senate Bill 2866, requires doctors to inform both male and female students entering the sixth grade about the HPV vaccine. Since 2007, state law has only required female students receive this information. The Center for Disease Control has recommended the vaccination for males since 2011.

“Each year, HPV causes 30,700 cancer diagnoses in both men and women,” Holmes said. “Updating our laws to ensure male students and their parents are able to make an informed decision about receiving the HPV vaccine will ultimately save lives.”

Senator Holmes’ proposal passed the Illinois Senate with a vote of 54-0-1. It will now be considered by the Illinois House of Representatives.