(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Public Health Acting Director shared with local Murphysboro officials his vision for the future of public health, eliminating health disparities and chronic disease, and providing greater access to healthcare in Illinois.

Acting Director LaMar Hasbrouck also mentioned Gov. Pat Quinn's $1-per-pack increase in the state cigarette tax as an effective way to close the $2.7 billion Medicaid deficit and improve health benefits statewide by curbing the number of smokers.

“Local health departments are the front lines of public health and are our strongest allies in the effort to address and eliminate health disparities, provide access to quality health care and improve the overall health of Illinois residents,” said Dr. Hasbrouck.

PERRY COUNTY, IL (KFVS)- Police say two people are facing charges in Perry County, Illinois on the same incident.  One of the suspects was reported missing last week and was found Du Quoin on May 1.

Pinckneyville Police say on Friday, May 4, Joshua I. Suhr, 23, of Pinckneyville was arrested on charges of criminal damage to property, theft of prescription medication and possession of a controlled substance.

On Wednesday, Dennis R. Nehrkorn, 56, of Pinckneyville was arrested on charges of obstructing a peace officer, criminal damage to property, theft of prescription medication and possession of a controlled substance.

Both were taken to the Perry County Jail.

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