SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A new Illinois law will give the state more oversight over the 2-1-1 emergency counsel service.
2-1-1 is a federal phone line that provides callers with emergency counseling if they need to find food, shelter, mental health services and other life-sustaining resources.
The law will give the Illinois Department of Human Services more oversight over the nonprofit and volunteer organizations providing 2-1-1 response.
Providers must maintain minimum work standards, provide proof that they receive a diverse range of funds, and demonstrate kind and quality service to callers.
"I've spoken with several people who use 2-1-1 in moments of crisis when they needed it the most," said Sen. Adriane Johnson (D-Waukegan). "They needed the services, and they needed the services fast. They needed kind and informed responses."
This law also calls for a data report from providers, including call volume, reasons for each call and caller demographics. That includes data on the age, race, gender, coverage rates and year-over-year trends.
Senate Bill 2194 took effect Friday.
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