Legislation Would Eliminate Mental Health Treatment Expenses for First Responders

(Springfield, IL) — The Illinois Senate is advancing legislation that would eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for first responders seeking mental health treatment. A measure proposed by Cook County Sheriff Thomas Dart would ensure police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel are exempt from any cost sharing requirements related to mental health counseling, including insurance deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance. The legislation now moves to the state House.