HB5319 Summary

• Establishes the Peoria Co-Responder Pilot Program within the Illinois Municipal Code, requiring the Peoria Police Department to create a co-response unit within 6 months of the law's effective date, subject to appropriation.

• The co-response unit conducts initial and follow-up visits for individuals who may benefit from mental or behavioral health services, with three primary focus areas: mental and behavioral health, substance use disorder services, and homelessness issues.

• Unit employs social workers (referred to as victim service specialists) who provide trauma-informed crisis intervention, case management, advocacy, and support to crime victims, with specialized responsibilities for domestic violence, juvenile cases, and court advocacy.

• All unit employees and Special Response Team officers must receive training in crisis intervention and integrating communications, assessment, and tactics (ICAT) for situations involving persons experiencing mental health or behavioral crises.

• The pilot program automatically repeals on January 1, 2029.