IL Senate passes bill requiring 988 info in public buildings, suicide prevention curriculum in health courses

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — State senators unanimously passed a bill Thursday to improve access to suicide prevention services.

Sponsors said 988 information should be visible in county shelter care homes, daycares, public libraries, colleges, hospitals, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. This comes as 1,500 lives are lost to suicide in Illinois each year.

The legislation also requires school boards to include age-appropriate suicide prevention curriculum in health courses for students in sixth through 12th grade. This proposal is named Tammurra's Act in memory of Tammy Bush's daughter.

"If even one young person learns to ask for help before despair takes over, then this bill would have done its job," Bush said.

The Illinois Department of Corrections would also be tasked with providing suicide prevention resources to people leaving prison.

Senate Bill 2771 now moves to the House for further consideration.

"This legislation strengthens access to support for individuals facing a mental health crisis," said Sen. Christopher Belt (D-Swansea). "This will also give students tools and lessons to understand their feelings and know where to turn for help."