Homer Glen, IL…State Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Homer Glen) is speaking out against a new Illinois law signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker that mandates annual mental health screenings for public school students in grades three through twelve, beginning in the 2027–2028 school year.
“I have concerns about this law and what it means for parents, children, and our schools,” said Rep. Sheehan. “Mental health is an important issue, but the way to address it is not through blanket mandates that potentially sideline parents and force schools into a role they are not equipped to fill. Decisions about children’s well-being belong first with their families in partnership with their local schools, not through a one-size-fits-all program.”
The new law requires students to complete screenings each year. Parents will have the ability to opt their child out, but critics warn the policy could wrongly label children, lead to false positives, and burden already-strained school systems.
“As a father of five, I know that parents, not politicians, know what’s best for their children,” Rep. Sheehan said. “While mental health support is important, the state should be working to increase access to professional care for those in need, not funneling every student through a government-run screening process that risks doing more harm than good.”
Rep. Sheehan says he will continue fighting for policies that put parents first, strengthen local control, and support students with resources that truly help rather than add government red tape.
Rep. Sheehan proudly serves the people of the 37th District.
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