The passage of the BREATHE Act is critically important because it addresses a profound and ongoing threat to public health and safety in Illinois by seeking to end the indiscriminate and harmful use of chemical irritants like tear gas on our communities. These agents are not benign; they cause severe, documented harm including permanent respiratory damage, miscarriages, and chemical burns, affecting not just protesters but vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

By prohibiting dangerous agents, establishing independent oversight and rigorous safety testing, and removing legal shields that prevent accountability, the BREATHE Act offers a necessary and proactive framework to protect all residents. Furthermore, as demonstrated by law enforcement's successful management of major events without these chemicals, such measures are not only essential for public health but are a viable and effective alternative to practices that endanger the very communities they are meant to serve.