An infographic that illustrates this message related to One Health: People who protect human, animal, and environmental health and other partners, coordinating, communicating and collaborating, to achieve the best health outcomes for people, animals, plants, and our envrionment. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.SPRINGFIELD — Recognizing that the health of humans, animals and the environment are interconnected, State Senator Julie Morrison advanced legislation that would improve collaboration between health care professionals, veterinarians and environmental experts when it comes to addressing public health challenges in Illinois.

“We’ve witnessed firsthand the impact the health of animals and humans have on one another, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the recent outbreak of bird flu,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Working together across disciplines will help the state tackle complex health challenges more effectively.”

Senate Bill 291 would establish a One Health Commission within the Illinois Department of Public Health to promote collaboration among physicians, veterinarians and other scientific professionals. The commission would work closely with state agencies to recommend best practices to promote interdisciplinary communication, establish methods for the response to and recovery from disease outbreaks in animals and humans, and develop ways to monitor emerging health threats, among other responsibilities. The commission would submit a report of recommendations to the governor and General Assembly by Jan. 1, 2027.

The One Health approach, which is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recognizes the connection between human, animal and environmental health. This framework promotes a multisector approach to addressing broad health challenges, such as diseases that spread between animals and people, and bacteria or viruses that become resistant to medicine. Research shows integrating expertise across disciplines helps achieve better health outcomes for all living things.

“This legislation would allow us to break down existing silos between human, animal and environmental health fields,” said Morrison. “By adopting a One Health approach, we can tap into the knowledge and skills of leading experts to make proactive decisions in safeguarding public health.”

Senate Bill 291 passed the Senate on April 9.