Manley-Backed Legislation to Provide Mental Health Resources to First Responders

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – As part of her efforts to provide additional mental health resources to residents, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, voted in favor of legislation that will create an online resource page with mental health resources aimed at first responders.

“First responders put their lives on the line for the safety of our community every shift,” said Manley. “The pressure and experiences they have keeping us safe can take a toll on their mental health. This legislation ensures that first responders have an easy and accessible way to find the help they need.”

Manley voted in favor of Senate Bill 1575, which received unanimous support in the House. The bill directs the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) to create a web page aimed at providing first responders mental health resources, including information for crisis services, stress reduction resources, and substance use resources. This information can be shared with families of first responders, first responder organizations, and first responders themselves to ensure that first responders have the information they need to get mental health assistance.

Since entering office, Manley has worked to support the mental health of her constituents. During this session, she supported a number of bills aimed at expanding access to mental health resources, including legislation that would require insurers to cover additional mental health treatments as well as a bill that would provide mental health assistance to those who are experiencing a mental health crisis and call 911.

“With the COVID-19 pandemic necessitating a focus on physical health, it is important that we are still working to protect the mental health of residents,” said Manley. “Just as with physical health, it is critical that we are working to provide resources to those who are seeking mental health care, and I look forward to exploring all avenues to ensure residents have the support they need to stay healthy both physically and mentally.”