SR0936 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0936 LRB103 40347 LAW 72587 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Every day, first responders are required to manage traumatic events, from fires to shootings, and these events have the potential to leave lasting effects on their mental health; and

WHEREAS, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) revealed that 75% of police officers have reported experiencing a traumatic event; that same source found that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a third higher than the general population; and

WHEREAS, The Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology reported that police suicide rates are 69% higher than the general population, and more police die by suicide than in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, Medical costs can serve as a deterrent to obtaining proper care, with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing revealing that 42% of the U.S. population views costs as a barrier to pursuing mental health services; and

WHEREAS, The Center for American Progress presented that the cost of psychotherapy ranges averaging from $100 to $200 per session, and insurance companies can pass up to 40% of treatments costs on to patients; for weekly therapy sessions, this can easily add up to over $2,000 a year in out-of-pocket costs for just one family member; and

WHEREAS, First responders should not have to face barriers to obtain the treatment they need to manage the resulting trauma they experienced while on the job, and making mental health care more affordable better helps people receive the proper care they need; and

WHEREAS, Research has shown that access to treatment not only improves a first responder's ability to do their job but also provides the public with first responders who are able to execute their duties in optimal form; and

WHEREAS, Current legislation under consideration by the Illinois General Assembly is seeking to remove cost-sharing requirements for mental health treatment, including insurance deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, and veterans; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge the U.S. Congress to support the mental health of first responders and to create and pass legislation to remove existing barriers to mental health treatment for individuals who respond to emergencies for the benefit of all; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be delivered to all members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation.