LaPointe Commends Pritzker’s Enactment of Measures to Support First Responders

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, is bringing attention to a number of measures that directly support first responders, law enforcement and their families.

“It is clear that we must provide more resources to Illinois’ first responders to protect wellbeing and help prevent suicide,” said LaPointe. “Given the effects of trauma and the many benefits of behavioral health services, we must do better to holistically address the aftermath of tragic incidents. These new laws do just that through critical and proactive support services for first responders and their families.”

LaPointe is applauding the passage of House Bill 2766, which establishes a mental health peer support program for first responders focusing on wellness and suicide prevention. This law creates a task force to study various ways to prevent first responder suicides. LaPointe is also drawing attention to the passage of Senate Bill 1183, which expands financial assistance offered by the Police Memorial Committee Fund to include spouses along with children of officers killed in the line of duty.

LaPointe is also highlighting House Bill 124, which changes a requirement that an applicant hold a bachelor’s degree, to either hold an associate’s degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university, to become an Illinois state trooper.

“State Troopers play a vital role in keeping our communities safe and Illinois deserves strong ranks that reflect our communities,” LaPointe said. “Illinois has created an easier pathway for individuals interested in law enforcement to become state troopers, and I thank Governor Pritzker for not only supporting law enforcement in this way, but also doing more to support the families that are rebuilding their lives after losing a loved one.”

LaPointe represents the 19th District, which covers portions of Chicago’s Big Oaks, Dunning, Gladstone Park, Jefferson Park, Portage Park, Union Ridge and West Portage Park neighborhoods, and River Grove, Elmwood Park, Norridge and Harwood Heights.