IL HB1321

Creates the First Responder Mental Health Grant Program Act to establish a grant program within the Department of Human Services providing funds for behavioral health care services to first responders including police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and public safety telecommunicators.

Eligible grant recipients include units of local government, law enforcement agencies, fire protection districts, school districts, public or private hospitals, and ambulance services that employ first responders.

Grants must be used for behavioral health care expenses including telehealth services, and employers cannot reduce existing behavioral health benefits as a result of receiving grant funds.

Treatment records and notes provided to first responders must remain confidential and cannot be shared with employers unless required by law.

Creates the First Responder Behavioral Health Grant Fund as a special fund in the State treasury to support the grant program.