Senator Harriss Sponsored Measure Supporting First Responder Mental Health Signed Into Law

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois coroners and medical examiners will soon have access to critical mental health counseling services thanks to legislation sponsored by State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) that was signed into law Friday.

Senate Bill 2770 expands Illinois' first responder mental health coverage to include coroners, deputy coroners, medical examiners, and deputy medical examiners. The new law allows these professionals to receive mental health counseling without deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or other out-of-pocket costs.

"Our coroners and medical examiners answer the call on some of the most difficult days imaginable,” said Senator Harriss. “They witness tragedy firsthand, and the emotional impact of that work cannot be ignored. This law ensures they have access to the mental health support they deserve so they can continue serving their communities."

Madison County Coroner Nick Novacich praised the legislation and Senator Harriss's leadership.

"Most people never see what coroners experience over the course of a career," said Novacich. "There are calls and cases that stay with you for the rest of your life. The cumulative effects of responding to fatal accidents, suicides, homicides, and unexpected deaths can take a significant emotional toll. This legislation recognizes those realities and ensures coroners have access to the mental health support they need. I appreciate Senator Harriss for helping make this important legislation a reality."

In addition to coroners and medical examiners, the law provides these mental health benefits to police officers, correctional officers, deputy sheriffs, firefighters, EMS personnel, public safety telecommunicators, and crisis response mental health professionals.

The law takes effect January 1, 2027.

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