State reps., advocates hope Illinois can provide $23.5 million for college MH services

State lawmakers and advocates argue Illinois needs to provide more funding for mental health services on college campuses, Illinois 25 News reported April 15. Many argue the state is falling short on a promise the Pritzker administration made to improve accessibility to care. The Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act was passed in 2019 to enhance mental health support at Illinois public colleges and universities. However, the bill was signed into law without funding necessary to implement it. Lawmakers approved $9 million for the program in 2023 and $13 million last year. Yet, the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability said Illinois needs $23.5 million to fully fund these services. Student advocates said too many young people are facing silent battles alone while they try to take on the heavy workload of college. Student advocate Hassan Hillard from Illinois State University said he was grateful to have mental health services available, but lawmakers need to provide additional funding to ensure every student has access. Gov. JB Pritzker introduced a $55.2 billion spending plan in February, but he warned lawmakers that they will need to make tough decisions about cutting spending. Lawmakers will spend the final weeks of session working on their Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal.