Understanding the Will County Referendum on Mental Health

Will County residents will have the opportunity to vote on a mental health referendum in the upcoming November election. The referendum aims to increase the availability of mental health services for individuals families in the county.

The Importance of Mental Health Services

Mental health is an important aspect of overall health wellbeing. However individuals with mental health conditions often face significant barriers when seeking treatment. These barriers can include stigma limited access to care affordability concerns.

In Will County the need for mental health services is significant. According to a 2019 report by the Will County Mental Health Board over 132000 residents are estimated to have a mental health condition. However there is only one mental health provider for every 1040 residents. This means that many individuals are not receiving the support they need to manage their mental health.

What the Referendum Would Do

If passed the Will County mental health referendum would create a Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL) referendum. This would allow the county to levy a tax for the purpose of funding mental health services.

The funds generated from the tax would be used to expmental health services in the county including:

• Increasing the number of mental health providers
• Expanding school-based mental health services
• Providing support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis

Supporters Opponents

Supporters of the mental health referendum argue that it is a much-needed investment in the wellbeing of Will County residents. They point to the significant need for mental health services the limited availability of providers as evidence of the urgent need for action.

Opponents of the referendum argue that it will increase taxes for residents argue that the county should focus on improving access to mental health services through partnerships with existing providers rather than creating a new tax.

The Bottom Line

Mental health is an important aspect of overall health the Will County mental health referendum aims to improve access to services for residents. While there are arguments both for against the referendum it is ultimately up to Will County residents to decide whether or not to support the initiative. Those who are registered to vote in Will County can make their voice heard by participating in the upcoming election.