A new mental health bill making its way through the state legislature would mean millions of dollars for increased access to mental health treatment.
State Senator Steve Stadelman’s bill would create a roadmap for counties looking to turn local tax revenue into support for those living with substance abuse and issues related to mental health. The Rockford Democrat said counties could see an additional $14 million of aid make its way to where it’s needed most.
“20% of the population deals with mental health issues, but there weren't adequate resources and treatments,” said Stadelman. “And I think the advocates and Winnebago county residents realize we needed a local funding source to make sure these treatments and services are provided.”
Back in March of 2020, voters in Winnebago County passed a referendum to increase the sales tax from 7.25 to 7.75%.
Stadelman said that, given the current health crisis, these new funds are especially important. “I think you can argue [that] with the pandemic, the need for mental health services and treatment is even greater than ever,” he said.
The new tax revenue would then be steered toward expanding mental health resources. Stadelman’s proposed legislation would require counties with approved mental health referendums to create a seven member board of health professionals and advocates to administer the new funds.
The bill has passed the Illinois Senate and is now being considered by the House of Representatives.
- Juanpablo Ramirez-Franco is a current corps member for Report for America, an initiative of the GroundTruth Project. It's a national service program that places talented journalists in local newsrooms like WNIJ.
