SPRINGFIELD – Municipal and county level first responders will soon no longer be charged a copay while utilizing mental health insurance coverage thanks to a new law led by State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

“Our first responders experience traumatic situations on a daily basis,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “The least we can do is remove barriers as they recover from stressful situations. By addressing mental health issues early on, we can prevent more serious and costly consequences down the line.”

Senate Bill 3538 will require any self-insured county or municipality that provides health insurance coverage to first responders to include mental health counseling coverage without imposing any cost-sharing requirements on patients.

Hastings believes that untreated mental health conditions can lead to increase absenteeism, reduced productivity and higher rates of turnover among first responders.

"First responders" are classified as any police, corrections officers, deputy sheriffs, firefighters, or emergency medical services personnel that are employed by local government entities, which would include counties and townships.

“By providing our first responders with free mental health treatment, we are promoting a work environment that enables them to serve our communities in an effective and safe manner,” said Hastings. “This new law highlights our investments in prioritizing the well-being of our first responders and their families.

Senate Bill 3538 was signed into law and goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.