ILBCF Annual Legislative Conference

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New Lightford law increases counseling visits for minors

• Mental Health
• Youth

SPRINGFIELD — Unaccompanied homeless minors, LGBTQ youth, those in need of early intervention for a mental health crisis and minors in conflict with their family could soon receive more help under a measure led by Assistant Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) that is now in effect.

Minors 12 years and older seeking counseling could soon receive more sessions without having to receive prior consent from a guardian. The proposal allows counselors to continue serving youth in circumstances where seeking parental permission may be detrimental to the youth.

“It’s important for young people to be able to seek the help they need on their own. Telling family about personal issues or trauma can be difficult and may even be dangerous,” Lightford said. “I hope this measure empowers minors to get counseling and benefits someone in need.”

The new law, House Bill 3709, increases the number of counseling visits for minors from five to eight sessions without having to receive prior consent from a guardian. Furthermore, it permits counselors to provide additional sessions under certain conditions, including cases of abuse or neglect.

First Generation Scholarship Opportunity

• Higher Education
• Scholarship

Elmhurst College is holding a scholarship competition for first generation college students. Students are required to compose and submit a video answering the question: As a first generation student, what would graduating from college mean to you and your family/friends?

The first-place winner will receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship. The second-place winner will receive a stipend to cover four years’ room and board. All students who enter the competition will receive a $1,000 annual American Dream Grant, which can be added to previously awarded merit scholarships and/or grant aid.

The scholarship contest is open to all first-generation college students who have been admitted to Elmhurst College for the fall of 2018.

For more information: https://www.elmhurst.edu/news/college-launches-scholarship-contest/

Apply here: https://connect.elmhurst.edu/register/application2018