Springfield, IL (WAND) – A new Illinois law will expand access to suicide prevention services. Lawmakers and advocates want people to know where they can turn during a crisis.
The law requires 988 information to be visible in county shelter care homes, daycares, public libraries, hospitals, universities and nursing homes.
“Suicide prevention requires awareness, education and access to resources, all the things that this bill addresses,” said Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea).
It also expands mental health education for students in grades six through 12 by incorporating evidence-based suicide prevention instruction into comprehensive health courses.
“Our kids experience stress that you cannot imagine,” said Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield). “Even if they’re not with their friends, they have that phone and social media in their face. Not all of it is pleasant. Not all of it is good.”
The Illinois Department of Corrections will also be required to provide suicide prevention resources to people leaving prison.
Advocates like Tammy Bush are committed to helping people of all ages know that help is available. The law is named Tammurra’s Act in memory of Bush’s daughter.
“If even one young person learns to ask for help before despair takes over, then this bill would have done its job,” Bush said.
Senate Bill 2771 passed out of the House on a 106-5 vote and received unanimous support in the Senate. The new law will take effect Jan. 1.
