50 ILCS 754/35: Non-violent misdemeanors.

The Division of Mental Health's Guidance for 9-1-1 PSAPs and emergency services dispatched through 9-1-1 PSAPs for coordinating the response to individuals who appear to be in a mental or behavioral health emergency while engaging in conduct alleged to constitute a non-violent misdemeanor shall promote the following:

(a) Prioritization of Health Care. To the greatest extent practicable, community-based mental or behavioral health services should be provided before addressing law enforcement objectives.

(b) Diversion from Further Criminal Justice Involvement. To the greatest extent practicable, individuals should be referred to health care services with the potential to reduce the likelihood of further law enforcement engagement and referral to a pre-arrest or pre-booking case management unit should be prioritized in any areas served by pre-arrest or pre-booking case management.