SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Mike Porfirio’s measure to continue studying mental health treatments to address the nationwide veteran suicide crisis has been signed into law.
“The studies and outcomes produced by this council have been extremely promising. They are saving real lives,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “We must continue to fight against veteran suicide as a national crisis, and this law keeps Illinois at the forefront of that fight.”
Porfirio’s law continues the Breakthrough Therapies for Veteran Suicide Prevention Advisory Council and places the council under the Illinois Department of Public Health.
The council, established in 2023, advises on guidelines and infrastructure to support innovative therapies for veteran suicide prevention. Under Porfirio’s law, the council will also advise the Illinois Department of Public Health on techniques to provide specialized training for therapy administrators, ensure patient safety and run public awareness campaigns.
Porfirio was appointed chair of the council in 2025 and recently received the National Innovator of the Year Award from the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition for his leadership on veterans’ suicide prevention.
Senate Bill 3926 was signed into law Wednesday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.
