SPRINGFIELD – Illinois has a new law on the books to help increase the state’s workforce to meet the growing demand of seeking mental and behavioral health assistance.

State Senator Eric Mattson (D-Joliet) served as a cosponsor on Senate Bill 3617, which focuses on expanding the workforce by streamlining licensure requirements and supporting diversity in the mental health field. The measure was signed into law on Friday.

“Our mental health is essential to leading a happy life,” Mattson said. “This new law helps the state increase the number of mental health professionals in our state to ensure residents receive the care they need.”

Senate Bill 3617 accelerates the process for out-of-state clinicians applying for licensure in Illinois, as well as streamlines requirements for social workers, professional counselors, and clinical psychologists with licenses that have been inactive for five years or more.

The new law also creates a pipeline for diversity of the behavioral workforce by setting up grants, trainings and supervision of interns.

In Illinois, there are only 14 behavioral health care professionals for every 10,000 Illinois residents. Many people are forced to wait longer for essential treatment or forego mental health care entirely because of this gap. This can be detrimental to their mental and physical well-being.

“I pledge to remain committed to looking for ways to improve mental health services and care in our great state,” Mattson said. “We need to continue to look for ways to support our mental and behavioral health professionals as they provide lifesaving treatment to our communities. Their dedication and work is admirable.”

Senate Bill 3617 passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support and took effect immediately upon signing. 

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