Hoffman-backed Plan Secures Marriage and Couple’s Counseling for First Responders

BELLEVILLE, Ill. – Recognizing the unique challenges first responders and their families face, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, supported a recently signed law that will ensure health insurance plans for police and firefighters includes coverage for marriage and couple’s counseling.

“Whether it’s the long, irregular hours or the unique dangers of the occupation, first responder jobs can cause significant strain and impact relationships at home,” Hoffman said. “This measure will make sure more police, firefighters and paramedics can access beneficial support that can help them and their families.”

Previously, insurance plans for first responders were not required to cover marriage or couple’s counseling as they are not considered a diagnosable mental health condition. While some insurance plans may have offered coverage as an additional benefit, the Hoffman-supported House Bill 4460 will uniformly require the benefit. The new law impacts every level of police, including Illinois State Police, sheriff’s departments and municipal departments, as well as paramedics employed by a fire department. The proposal is not limited to married couples, as it also includes partners who reside with the first responder.

House Bill 4460 passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support and was recently signed into law. The measure takes full effect Jan. 1, 2025.

“Our first responders have our back in times of need, and it’s critical that Springfield ensures they have the resources and support they deserve to do their jobs safely and effectively,” Hoffman said. “I’m grateful for our local departments and will continue to engage them on ways we can deliver support from the state.”

For more information, please contact RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.