Victory for Student Mental Health: HB 3385 Passes the Illinois House

We are thrilled to share that House Bill 3385—a crucial step forward for student mental health—has officially passed the Illinois House of Representatives.

HB 3385 mandates the presence of licensed clinical counselors on the campuses of Illinois institutions of higher education, including our community colleges. This bill builds upon the strong foundation laid by the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act, ensuring that legislative intent becomes real-world support where it matters most: on campus, and in-person.

The Need Is Urgent—And Personal

We know that anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are at record levels among college students. Yet, even when students bravely reach out and say, “I need help,” too many are met with a phone number, a waitlist, or a remote service.

That’s not good enough.

HB 3385 recognizes that mental health services must be proactive and accessible. Licensed clinical counselors are the point people for student mental health. They do far more than respond to crises—they also prevent them. They run workshops, collaborate with faculty, and create a culture where asking for help is not a weakness but a strength. Their daily, visible presence helps students feel seen, supported, and safe. When we have trained professionals embedded in our campuses, students know that help is available, not someday, but right now—from someone they trust, face to face.

HB 3385: Turning Promise into Practice

While the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act was a major milestone, it left room for interpretation—and, unfortunately, for institutions to cut corners by outsourcing or eliminating counseling staff. HB 3385 closes that gap. It sends a clear message: if you serve students, you must have licensed clinical counselors on campus.

This bill honors the spirit of earlier legislation and transforms it into action that can’t be undermined by administrative decisions.

A Healthier Future for Our Students

We are grateful to the members of the Illinois House who supported HB 3385 and recognized what so many of us in higher education know: student success depends on more than grades and GPAs. It depends on mental wellness, emotional resilience, and the presence of trained professionals who can guide students through life’s toughest moments.

HB 3385 isn’t just about compliance—it’s about care. And thanks to this vote, we are one step closer to making sure every student in Illinois has the support they need to thrive, both in the classroom and beyond.

A Win for Our Union and Our Partners

This legislative victory is a powerful reminder of why the political work of the Cook County College Teachers Union (CCCTU) matters. Our union’s advocacy was instrumental in shaping and supporting HB 3385—and it was only possible because of the deep, sustained commitment of our members and the strength of our political program. The Committee on Political Education (COPE) remains the backbone of these efforts, giving us the resources, strategy, and voice we need to influence policy at the highest levels.

We especially want to thank Representative Norma Hernandez for her leadership and partnership in championing this bill. Her work, in collaboration with a broad coalition of partners from across higher education and the mental health advocacy community, made HB 3385 possible. This is what solidarity looks like—and we’re just getting started.