WAUKEGAN – With advocacy from State Senator Adriane Johnson, a new law in Illinois creates a new grant program to invest in behavioral health care specifically for first responders.

“First responders willingly serve at the forefront of each incident or disaster our community faces, and they help ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Because they are at great risk of exposure to traumatic situations, this grant program will allow more first responders to have access to supportive and responsive behavioral health services and treatment.”

Under the law, the Department of Human Services will create a First Responder Behavioral Health Grant program to fund grants available to local governments, law enforcement agencies, fire protection districts, school districts, hospitals and ambulance providers. In the Fiscal Year 23 budget, the state appropriated $2 million to the grant program.

SPRINGFIELD – Schools fees will be waived for low-income students with veteran or active military parents under a new law championed by State Senator Adriane Johnson.

“Veterans and active military members endure many hardships, and families with young children are finding it difficult to keep up with school fees,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “By offering support to our heroes and their families, we can assist them through difficult financial times.”

Johnson’s law allows school boards to waive fees for students with a parent who is a veteran or an active member of the military with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, which is an estimated $55,500 for an average family of four.

WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson was appointed to serve on the Military Economic Development Committee by Senate President Don Harmon on Tuesday.

“To protect residents and working families, military operations in Illinois must be sound,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “Improving the business climate, ensuring bases are fully equipped and offering assistance to service members and their families will create a strong military presence throughout the state.”