Sangamon Sun

First responders in Illinois are receiving increased attention from state lawmakers, with several legislative proposals introduced to address the challenges they face. There are an estimated 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders across the United States, including firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and EMTs. These professionals respond to approximately 240 million calls annually.

The high-pressure nature of their work leads to elevated rates of stress-related conditions among first responders. A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions such as depression and PTSD, compared to 20% in the general population.

In response to these challenges, House Republicans who have backgrounds as first responders have put forward several bills aimed at providing support. Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Homer Glen), a police officer for nearly two decades, has introduced HB1634 to offer a tax credit of up to $250 for unreimbursed wellness expenses incurred by those serving at least ten months per year. Sheehan also co-sponsored HB2551, which reinstates the First Responders Suicide Task Force. “I’ve seen the challenges firsthand, with departments struggling to recruit and first responders dealing with financial strain or mental health struggles,” Rep. Sheehan said. “We can and must do better.”

Representative John M. Cabello (R-Machesney Park), with almost thirty years in law enforcement, proposed HB1031 to protect emergency personnel from harassment while on duty by establishing penalties for interference after being warned to stay back. He has also voiced opposition to using mental health conditions as a defense for violent crimes against officers: “To excuse bad and violent behavior under the guise of mental health is totally inappropriate,” Rep. John M. Cabello said. “This idea puts officers at greater risk and dismisses the seriousness of mental health issues.”

Former volunteer firefighter Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) introduced HB1324 for a $500 income tax credit targeting full-time police officers, firefighters, and rescue workers facing financial pressure in their roles. Another bill from Ugaste, HB2357, would make it a Class 4 felony to block emergency vehicles on public roadways for more than five minutes during demonstrations or other incidents: “When it comes to public safety, we must hold people accountable,” Rep. Ugaste said. “What happens when a fire truck can’t get through, or an ambulance is delayed? Lives could be at stake, and first responders cannot be held up in this manner.”

House Republican members continue efforts through regular roundtable discussions with leaders from the first responder community in order to inform their legislative agenda.

Recently Representatives Ugaste and Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) held their annual First Responders Roundtable with police and fire chiefs from northern Illinois communities. Last year’s event resulted in legislation signed into law that removed barriers preventing some firefighters from operating emergency vehicles. This year’s roundtable focused on regulations related to ebikes and escooters as well as addressing potential misuse of Illinois’ FOIA law by commercial entities: “Our first responders go to work every day ready to put their lives on the line to protect our families, and it’s more important than ever that we listen to the issues they face and ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs protecting our communities,” Rep. Keicher said.

Keicher was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 70th House District in 2018 after replacing Robert W. Pritchard.

These initiatives signal continued efforts by lawmakers in Illinois aimed at supporting those working on the front lines of public safety.