Illinois Fire Service Legislative Partnership’s

Updated 6/3/08

Dates to Remember

HB 1434
Short Description:  HARPER COLLEGE-BACHELOR DEGREE
House Sponsors
Rep. Fred Crespo-Sidney H. Mathias-Paul D. Froehlich-Elaine Nekritz-William B. Black, Linda Chapa LaVia, Roger L. Eddy, Suzanne Bassi, Mark H. Beaubien, Jr., Susana A Mendoza, Maria Antonia Berrios, Luis Arroyo, Elizabeth Hernandez, Greg Harris, Cynthia Soto, Edward J. Acevedo, Jack McGuire, Daniel J. Burke, Esther Golar and Mike Boland
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Dan Kotowski-John J. Millner, Michael Noland-Pamela J. Althoff-David Koehler and Susan Garrett)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Public Community College Act. Provides that the Board of Trustees of Community College District No. 512 may create a pilot baccalaureate program under which the district may establish and offer bachelor's degrees in 2 fields of study if certain conditions are met, including requiring (i) that the degree programs not compete with any nearby public university, (ii) that the district identify and document unmet workforce needs, (iii) that the degree programs not require any additional funding from local taxes or the State, (iv) that the Illinois Community College Board and the Board of Higher Education approve the offering of the degree programs, and (v) that the pilot program expire 4 years after the initial offering of the degree programs, unless otherwise extended by law. Effective immediately.

House Amendment No. 2
     Adds as a condition that the public universities in this State have the right of first refusal to offer the baccalaureate degree programs on the community college campus in a manner that is mutually agreeable between the district and the university.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 2
     Provides that public and private universities and colleges in this State (instead of just public universities) have the right of first refusal; makes related changes. Provides that the right of first refusal also applies to the offering of the baccalaureate degree programs on a community college extension site. Provides that if there is a disagreement on whether the university or college program meets local workforce needs, a 5-person panel shall be appointed to determine if the university's or college's proposed program on the community college campus or extension site reasonably meets local workforce needs. Provides that the degree programs must also not require any additional funding from Community College District No. 512 students not enrolled in the pilot program. Provides that at the completion of the Community College District No. 512 pilot program, the Illinois Auditor General shall conduct an audit to determine if any funding for the pilot program was provided by local taxes, the State, or the community college students not enrolled in the program. Removes a reference to the Illinois Community College Board with respect to approving the offering of the degree programs. Provides that the Board of Higher Education's approval of the offering of the degree programs must be in a manner consistent with approving new bachelor's degree programs at all State public universities. Adds as a program condition that credits obtained by any student in the pilot program prior to the sunset date shall be automatically transferable to any public or private university or college offering the same or a similar program. Provides that the intention of the amendatory Act is to allow Community College District No. 512 to meet specific, documented workforce needs in the district that no public or private university or college is willing and able to reasonably meet. Prohibits Community College District No. 512 from becoming a primarily baccalaureate degree-granting, 4-year institution of higher learning. Changes the effective date from immediate to July 1, 2008.

Last Action 

HB 4417
Short Description:  MUNI CD-FIRE AND POLICE
House Sponsors
Rep. Elizabeth Coulson-Angelo Saviano-Dennis M. Reboletti
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Jeffrey M. Schoenberg)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a board of fire and police commissioners may waive portions of the required examination for applicants who have previously been full-time sworn officers of a regular fire or police department of any municipality in the State. Provides that a board of fire and police commissioners may prepare and keep a second register of persons who have previously been full-time sworn officers of a regular fire or police department of any municipality in the State. Provides that persons on the second register shall take rank upon the register as candidates in the order of their relative excellence as determined by members of the board of fire and police commissioners.
House Amendment No. 1
     Further amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a board of fire and police commissioners may waive portions of the required examination for applicants who have previously been full-time sworn officers of a police department in any municipal, county, university, or State law enforcement agency, provided they are certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board and have been with their respective law enforcement agency within the State for at least 2 years. Removes the authorization given to boards of fire and police commissioners to waive portions of the required examination for applicants who have previously been full-time sworn officers of a fire department. Provides that the board of fire and police commissioners may prepare and keep a second register of persons who have previously been full-time sworn officers of a police department in any municipal, county, university, or State law enforcement agency, provided they are certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board and have been with their respective law enforcement agency within the State for at least 2 years. Removes the authorization given to the board of fire and police commissioners to prepare and keep a second register of persons who have previously been full-time officers of a regular fire department.

Last Action 

HB 4645
Short Description:  FINANCE AUTHORITY-FIRE STATION

House Sponsors
Rep. Sidney H. Mathias-Donald L. Moffitt-Michael K. Smith-David Reis-Patricia R. Bellock, Patrick J Verschoore, Mike Boland, Charles E. Jefferson, Jim Sacia, Jerry L. Mitchell, Carolyn H. Krause, Sandra M. Pihos, Timothy L. Schmitz, Shane Cultra, Keith P. Sommer, Elizabeth Coulson, Lisa M. Dugan, Raymond Poe, Dave Winters, Ron Stephens, Bill Mitchell, Richard P. Myers, Jil Tracy, Robert W. Pritchard, Mark H. Beaubien, Jr., Mike Bost, Sandy Cole, Ronald A. Wait, Rich Brauer, Roger L. Eddy, Renée Kosel, Mike Fortner, Dan Brady, Ruth Munson, David R. Leitch, Aaron Schock and Rosemary Mulligan
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Michael W. Frerichs and Dave Syverson)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Illinois Finance Authority Act. Requires the Authority and the State Fire Marshal to jointly administer a program of zero-interest loans to fire departments and fire protection districts for the construction, rehabilitation, remodeling, and expansion of fire stations and the acquisition of land for the construction and expansion of fire stations. Amends the State Finance Act. Creates the Fire Station Revolving Loan Fund as a special fund in the State treasury for purposes of the loan program. Effective July 1, 2008.
House Amendment No. 1
     Removes the requirement for the adoption of implementing rules. Provides that neither the Governor nor any agency or agency head under the jurisdiction of the Governor has any rulemaking authority under the amendatory Act, but that the Governor may suggest rules by filing them with the General Assembly and requesting that the General Assembly authorize such rulemaking by law, enact the suggested rules into law, or take other appropriate action in the General Assembly's discretion.
House Amendment No. 2
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the provisions of House Bill 4645, as amended by House Amendment No. 1, with the following changes: Authorizes (now, requires) the fire station revolving loan program. Provides that the revolving loan program may (now, shall) provide zero-interest loans, and conditions the Authority's lending upon the program receiving funding. Provides that the loan funds may (now, shall) be paid out of the Fire Station Revolving Loan Fund and that the Fund may (now, shall) consist of funds transferred or appropriated into it and loan repayments. Makes the use of the Fund permissive and conditioned upon the program receiving funding. Effective July 1, 2008.
Last Action 

HB 4674
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-TRUSTEES
House Sponsors
Rep. Donald L. Moffitt-Michael K. Smith-Joseph M. Lyons and Mike Boland
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Dale E. Risinger-Michael W. Frerichs-William R. Haine-Pamela J. Althoff)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that any trustee of a fire protection district who completes a training program on fire protection district administration approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshal may receive additional compensation.

Last Action 

HB 4675
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-NON-RESIDENT
House Sponsors
Rep. Michael K. Smith-Donald L. Moffitt and Milton Patterson
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Pamela J. Althoff)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that, until January 1, 2009, the fee charged to persons and entities that are not residents of the fire protection district for the cost of providing services shall not exceed $250 per vehicle (now, $125) and shall not exceed $70 per hour per firefighter (now, $35 per hour per firefighter). Provides that those amounts shall be adjusted annually to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index during the previous 12-month period.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Reinserts the engrossed bill with the following changes. Provides that the charge for fire protection services provided to persons and entities who are not residents of the fire protection district shall be increased or decreased by the percentage change (instead of adjusted annually to reflect changes) in the Consumer Price Index-U during the previous 12-month period. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

HB 4678
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-TRUSTEE
House Sponsors
Rep. Donald L. Moffitt-Michael K. Smith-Patrick J Verschoore-Mike Boland
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Dale E. Risinger)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that trustees in a fire protection district with more than 30 full-time paid firefighters shall receive a salary not to exceed $4,000 per year (now, $2,000 per year).

Last Action 

HB 4683
Short Description:  FIRE SAFETY-IMITATE SPRINKLER
House Sponsors
Rep. Elaine Nekritz-Michael K. Smith-Thomas Holbrook-Patrick J Verschoore and Mike Boland
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Michael Noland, Mike Jacobs and M. Maggie Crotty)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Creates the Fire and Life Safety Device Act. Provides that the manufacture, installation, or sale of any device or object that reasonably appears to be a smoke detector, sprinkler head, carbon monoxide alarm, heat detector, or any other similar device used for life safety or fire protection that is, in fact, neither designed nor capable of performing such life safety or fire protection function, is prohibited. Establishes penalties for violations of the Act. Provides that inspectors employed by municipalities, fire protection districts, and counties and those individuals who meet the certification requirements of the Fire Sprinkler Contractor Licensing Act may inspect such devices to ensure compliance with the Act.

House Amendment No. 2
     Provides that individuals licensed under the Professional Engineering Practice Act of 1989 may also inspect the life safety and fire protection devices. Provides that the inspection of the life safety devices shall not be conducted in any room or suite of rooms used for human habitation, including any single family residence, living unit of a multiple family residence, or living unit in a mixed use building.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1
     Provides that the provisions of the amendatory Act do not apply to sworn law enforcement officers utilizing a facsimile smoke detector, sprinkler head, carbon monoxide alarm, heat detector, or any other similar device in furtherance of a criminal investigation.

Last Action 

HB 4686
Short Description:  FIRE TRAINING-RETIRED FIRE
House Sponsors
Rep. Jack D. Franks-Michael K. Smith-Kathleen A. Ryg
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. M. Maggie Crotty)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Illinois Fire Protection Training Act. Provides that certain persons who are retired from active fire service duties may receive training certification regardless of the fact that they are not employed or otherwise engaged by an organized Illinois fire department. Effective immediately.
House Amendment No. 1
     Provides that there is no rulemaking authority under the amendatory Act, but that the Governor may suggest rules by filing them with the General Assembly and requesting that the General Assembly authorize such rulemaking by law, enact the suggested rules into law, or take other appropriate action in the General Assembly's discretion.

Last Action 

HB 4687
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-GRANT
House Sponsors
Rep. Mike Boland-Michael K. Smith
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Michael W. Frerichs)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that the board of trustees of any fire protection district may establish a program to award grants to certain property owners who install and maintain sprinkler or other fire suppression systems. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

HB 4699
Short Description:  PRIMARY STROKE CENTER
House Sponsors
Rep. Milton Patterson-Bob Biggins-Elizabeth Coulson-Daniel J. Burke-Sandra M. Pihos, LaShawn K. Ford, Constance A. Howard, William B. Black, Karen May, Jack D. Franks, Sidney H. Mathias, Arthur L. Turner, Patricia Reid Lindner, Ruth Munson, Patricia R. Bellock, Elaine Nekritz, Mike Bost, David R. Leitch, James D. Brosnahan, Jil Tracy, Mike Fortner, Sandy Cole, Linda Chapa LaVia, Jim Watson, Roger L. Eddy, William Davis, Michael P. McAuliffe, Ron Stephens, Carolyn H. Krause, Jim Durkin, Dennis M. Reboletti, Keith P. Sommer, Kevin Joyce, Joe Dunn, John A. Fritchey, Esther Golar, Cynthia Soto, Marlow H. Colvin, Franco Coladipietro, Susana A Mendoza, Sara Feigenholtz, Kenneth Dunkin, Gary Hannig, Barbara Flynn Currie, Donald L. Moffitt, Julie Hamos, Kathleen A. Ryg, Harry R. Ramey, Jr., Maria Antonia Berrios, Rosemary Mulligan, Suzanne Bassi, Raymond Poe, Ronald A. Wait, Rich Brauer, Karen A. Yarbrough, Edward J. Acevedo, Shane Cultra, Robert W. Pritchard, Jim Sacia, Michael Tryon and Jerry L. Mitchell
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Donne E. Trotter-Dan Cronin-Antonio Munoz, Mattie Hunter, Dale A. Righter, Iris Y. Martinez, Michael W. Frerichs-Christine Radogno-Pamela J. Althoff, Kirk W. Dillard, Matt Murphy, William E. Peterson, Larry K. Bomke and Tim Bivins)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Creates the Primary Stroke Center Designation Act. Sets forth the findings of the General Assembly. Provides that the Director of Public Health shall designate as many hospitals as Primary Stroke Centers as apply for the designation, provided that the hospital meets the criteria set forth in the Act. Provides the criteria necessary for designation as a Primary Stroke Center. Provides that the Director of Public Health may suspend or revoke a hospital's designation as a Primary Stroke Center after notice and hearing if the Director determines that the hospital does not comply with the requirements of the Act. Provides that the Director of Public Health may award matching grants to hospitals that seek designation as Primary Stroke Centers and demonstrate a need for financial assistance to develop the necessary infrastructure. Provides that the Director of Public Health must, not later than July 1, 2010, prepare and submit to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the General Assembly a report indicating the total number of hospitals that have applied for grants under the Act before July 1, 2010 and the number of those applicants that have been found eligible for the grants, the total number of grants awarded, the name and address of each grantee and hospital and the amount of the award to each, and the amount of each award that has been awarded to the grantee. Effective immediately.

House Amendment No. 1
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Primary Stroke Center Designation Act. Sets forth the findings of the General Assembly. Provides that the Illinois Department of Public Health shall recognize a hospital as a Primary Stroke Center if the hospital meets specified criteria. Provides that the Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health may award matching grants to hospitals that have been designated Primary Stroke Centers or that seek designation as Primary Stroke Centers, to be used for specified purposes. Provides that a hospital seeking designation as a Primary Stroke Center may apply to the Director for a matching grant in a manner and form designated by the Director and shall provide information as the Director deems necessary to determine if the hospital is eligible for the grant. Provides that matching grant awards shall be made to Primary Stroke Centers, placing greatest priority on facilities in areas with high stroke morbidity rates and achieving geographic diversity where possible. Contains provisions concerning the reporting of information by the Director or Department to specified parties. Contains provisions concerning triage and transportation of stroke victims to a Primary Stroke Center. Provides that the Act is not a medical practice guideline and may not be used to restrict the authority of a hospital to provide services for which it has received a license under state law. Provides that a person may not claim or advertise to the public, by way of any medium whatsoever, that a hospital is a Primary Stroke Center unless the hospital is designated a Primary Stroke Center in accordance with the Act. Provides that neither the Governor nor any agency or agency head under the jurisdiction of the Governor has any rulemaking authority under the Act, but that the Governor may suggest rules by filing them with the General Assembly and requesting that the General Assembly authorize such rulemaking by law, enact the suggested rules into law, or take other appropriate action in the General Assembly's discretion. Effective immediately.

House Amendment No. 5
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act. Requires the Director of Public Health to develop a working group to advise the Department of Public Health on Primary Stroke Center Systems. Provides for the membership of the work group. Provides that the group shall also develop and submit a statewide stroke assessment tool to the Department for final approval; provides that once the tool has been approved, a copy shall be disseminated to all EMS Systems for adoption no later than January 15, 2010. Effective immediately.
Last Action 

HB 4905
Short Description:  PEN CD-ART 3 & 4-VARIOUS
House Sponsors
Rep. Mark H. Beaubien, Jr.-Sandra M. Pihos-Elaine Nekritz-Sidney H. Mathias-Thomas Holbrook, Elga L. Jefferies, Bob Biggins, Linda Chapa LaVia, Paul D. Froehlich, Michael P. McAuliffe, Mike Fortner, William B. Black, Julie Hamos, Fred Crespo, Robert W. Pritchard, Carolyn H. Krause, Elizabeth Coulson, Ruth Munson, Rosemary Mulligan, Jil Tracy, Ronald A. Wait, Dennis M. Reboletti, Brent Hassert, Raymond Poe, Rich Brauer, Roger L. Eddy, Timothy L. Schmitz, Mike Bost, Michael Tryon, Sandy Cole, Jim Sacia, Tom Cross, Patricia R. Bellock, Kathleen A. Ryg and Karen May
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Jeffrey M. Schoenberg-Susan Garrett-Chris Lauzen-Pamela J. Althoff)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Pension Impact Note Act. Requires that a pension impact note for legislation affecting downstate police and downstate firefighter pension funds must demonstrate the fiscal impact of the legislation on at least 25 municipalities with the pension funds. Amends the Illinois Pension Code. Makes changes concerning prohibited transactions by fiduciaries of a pension fund established under the Downstate Police or Downstate Firefighter Article (Article 3 or 4), examinations of pension funds, and witnesses and adds provisions concerning consulting services, prohibitions on gifts for members of a board of trustees of a pension fund established under Article 3 or 4, fraudulent claims for disability pensions by police officers and firefighters, award of benefits, publication of a notice regarding the fiscal status of a pension fund established under Article 3 or 4, and a report by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability on pension funds established under Article 3 or 4. Makes other changes. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

House Amendment No. 1
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Department of Regulation Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois and the State Finance Act to prohibit transfers to the Professions Indirect Cost Fund from the Public Pension Regulation Fund. Amends the Pension Impact Note Act to provide that the pension impact note for any legislation or amendment that the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability determines would result in an increase in benefits or increased costs to a downstate police or fire pension fund may demonstrate the fiscal impact of the legislation on selected individual municipalities with such pension funds. Amends the Illinois Pension Code. Makes changes in provisions concerning fiduciaries of and investments by downstate police and fire pension funds. Prohibits a trustee of a downstate police or fire pension board from intentionally soliciting or accepting any gift from a prohibited source. Makes changes in provisions concerning annual reports submitted by downstate police and fire pension funds to the municipality. In the Downstate Police Article, adds provisions concerning the award of benefits and makes changes concerning examinations and investigations. In the Downstate Firefighter Article, adds provisions concerning fraud. Requires the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability to analyze data submitted by the Public Pension Division pertaining to downstate police and fire pension funds in each odd numbered year. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.
Last Action 

HB 4931
Short Description:  MUNI CD-FOREIGN FIRE INS BOARD
House Sponsors
Rep. Brandon W. Phelps-Aaron Schock
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Dan Kotowski)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a payment that is required to be made by every out-of-state corporation, company, and association which is engaged in effecting fire insurance in a municipality must be paid to the foreign fire insurance board (instead of the municipality). Effective immediately.

Last Action 

HB 5011
Short Description:  PEN CD-SERS-LEAVE OF ABSENCE
House Sponsors
Rep. Robert S. Molaro
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Kwame Raoul)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the State Employee Article of the Illinois Pension Code. In provisions concerning final average compensation, provides that, for an employee on leave of absence with pay, or on leave of absence without pay who makes contributions during such leave, the rate of compensation is assumed to be equal to the rate of compensation on the date the leave began. Effective immediately.

House Amendment No. 1
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the State Employee Article of the Illinois Pension Code. In provisions concerning final average compensation, provides that for a member on leave of absence without pay who purchases service credit for that period of leave, earnings are assumed to be equal to the rate of compensation in effect immediately prior to the leave. Provides that, if no contributions are required to establish service credit for the period of leave, the member may elect to establish earnings credit for the leave period within 48 months after returning to work by making the employee and employer contributions, plus interest at the actuarially assumed rate. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

HB 5909
Short Description:  CRIM CD-OBSTRUCT FIREFIGHTER
House Sponsors
Rep. Chapin Rose-William B. Black-Donald L. Moffitt-John A. Fritchey
Senate Sponsors
(Sen. Dale A. Righter and Martin A. Sandoval)

Synopsis As Introduced
      Amends the Criminal Code of 1961. Provides that resisting or obstructing a firefighter is a Class A misdemeanor. Provides that if the violation was the proximate cause of an injury to the firefighter, the offender is guilty of a Class 4 felony. Provides that the court shall also sentence the offender to a minimum of 48 consecutive hours of imprisonment or to perform community service for not less than 100 hours as may be determined by the court. Provides that the person shall not be eligible for probation in order to reduce the sentence of imprisonment or community service.

House Amendment No. 2
     Provides that it is an affirmative defense to resisting or obstructing a firefighter if a person resists or obstructs the performance of one known by the person to be a firefighter by returning to or remaining in a dwelling, residence, building, or other structure to rescue or to attempt to rescue any person.

Last Action 

SB 2070
Short Description:  FIRE DPT PROMOTION-ASSESSORS
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Mike Jacobs
House Sponsors
(Rep. Kevin A. McCarthy-Michael K. Smith-Donald L. Moffitt-Patrick J Verschoore-James D. Brosnahan)

Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Fire Department Promotion Act. With respect to subjective evaluation of candidates for promotion, sets up a procedure for the parties to select impartial qualified professionals as promotional assessors from a roster established by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Makes technical corrections. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

SB 2090
Short Description:  PEN CD-ART 3 & 4-VARIOUS
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Susan Garrett-Pamela J. Althoff, William R. Haine, Dan Cronin-Jeffrey M. Schoenberg, Chris Lauzen-Dale A. Righter, Kimberly A. Lightford, Ira I. Silverstein and Michael Noland
House Sponsors
(Rep. Mark H. Beaubien, Jr.)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Pension Impact Note Act. Requires that a pension impact note for legislation affecting downstate police and downstate firefighter pension funds must demonstrate the fiscal impact of the legislation on at least 25 municipalities with the pension funds. Amends the Illinois Pension Code. Makes changes concerning prohibited transactions by fiduciaries of a pension fund established under the Downstate Police or Downstate Firefighter Article (Article 3 or 4), examinations of pension funds, and witnesses and adds provisions concerning consulting services, prohibitions on gifts for members of a board of trustees of a pension fund established under Article 3 or 4, fraudulent claims for disability pensions by police officers and firefighters, award of benefits, publication of a notice regarding the fiscal status of a pension fund established under Article 3 or 4, and a report by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability on pension funds established under Article 3 or 4. Makes other changes. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Pension Code. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning prohibited transactions.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Department of Regulation Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois and the State Finance Act to prohibit transfers to the Professions Indirect Cost Fund from the Public Pension Regulation Fund. Amends the Pension Impact Note Act to provide that the pension impact note for any legislation or amendment that the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability determines would result in an increase in benefits or increased costs to a downstate police or fire pension fund may demonstrate the fiscal impact of the legislation on selected individual municipalities with such pension funds. Amends the Illinois Pension Code. Makes changes in provisions concerning fiduciaries of and investments by downstate police and fire pension funds. Prohibits a trustee of a downstate police or fire pension board from intentionally soliciting or accepting any gift from a prohibited source. Makes changes in provisions concerning annual reports submitted by downstate police and fire pension funds to the municipality. In the Downstate Police Article, adds provisions concerning the award of benefits and makes changes concerning examinations and investigations. In the Downstate Firefighter Article, adds provisions concerning fraud. Requires the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability to analyze data submitted by the Public Pension Division pertaining to downstate police and fire pension funds in each odd numbered year. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

SB 2252
Short Description:  BURN INJURY REPORT-NO REPEAL
Senate Sponsors
Sen. William R. Haine and William Delgado
House Sponsors
(Rep. Bill Mitchell-Daniel J. Burke-Patricia R. Bellock-Naomi D. Jakobsson, Rich Brauer, Donald L. Moffitt, Jim Sacia, Robert W. Pritchard, David Reis, Richard P. Myers, Shane Cultra, Keith P. Sommer, Jil Tracy, Ronald A. Wait, Mike Bost, Ron Stephens, Dennis M. Reboletti, Ruth Munson, Timothy L. Schmitz and Raymond Poe)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Burn Injury Reporting Act. Repeals a Section of the Act that would have repealed the Act on January 1, 2009. Effective immediately.

  
Last Action 

SB 2300
Short Description:  PUBLIC AID-AMBULANCE SERVICE
Senate Sponsors
Sen. John M. Sullivan, David Luechtefeld, Gary Forby-Kimberly A. Lightford, Bill Brady, Ira I. Silverstein, M. Maggie Crotty and Donne E. Trotter
House Sponsors
(Rep. John E. Bradley-Dan Reitz-Patrick J Verschoore-Thomas Holbrook, Lou Lang, Bob Biggins, Donald L. Moffitt, Daniel J. Burke, John D'Amico, Mike Bost, Brandon W. Phelps and Lisa M. Dugan)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides a guideline for the repayment of ambulance services for emergency ambulance services, non-emergency ambulance services, mileage, advanced life support services, and specialty care transport services. Provides that the requirement for payment of ground ambulance services by the Illinois Department of Public Aid is met if the services are provided pursuant to a request for evaluation, treatment, and transport for an individual with a condition of such a nature that a prudent layperson would have reasonably expected that a delay in seeking immediate medical attention would have been hazardous to life or health. Requires the Department to annually update the ambulance fee schedule rates on July 1 of each year.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1
     Provides that the ambulance services for which reimbursement is required under the medical assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code are limited to ground ambulance services. Corrects a reference to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems Act.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Replaces all of the provisions concerning ambulance services payments under the medical assistance program (except does not replace the amendatory provisions added by P.A. 95-501 concerning non-emergency transportation by medi-car and service car). Provides that for ground ambulance services provided to a recipient of medical assistance on or after July 1, 2008, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall reimburse ground ambulance services providers for base charges and mileage charges based upon the lesser of the provider's charge, as reflected on the provider's claim form, or the Illinois Medicaid Ambulance Fee Schedule rates calculated in accordance with these provisions. Provides that effective July 1, 2008 the Illinois Medicaid Ambulance Fee Schedule shall be established and shall include only the ground ambulance services rates outlined in the Medicare Ambulance Fee Schedule as promulgated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and adjusted for the 4 Medicare Localities in Illinois, with an adjustment of 100% of the Medicare Ambulance Fee Schedule, by Medicare Locality, for both base rates and mileage for rural counties, and an adjustment of 80% of the Medicare Ambulance Fee Schedule for all other counties; provides for the transition from the current payment system to the Illinois Medicaid Ambulance Fee Schedule by means of a 3-year phase-in. Provides that the requirement for payment of ground ambulance services by the Department is deemed to be met if the services are provided pursuant to a request for evaluation, treatment, and transport from an individual with a condition of such a nature that a prudent layperson would have reasonably expected that a delay in seeking immediate medical attention would have been hazardous to life or health. Sets forth provisions concerning mileage payments, payments by Medicaid Managed Care Plans, and out-of-State providers. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

SB 2301
Short Description:  INC TX-HEALTHY WORKFORCE CR
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Debbie DeFrancesco Halvorson-Michael Noland, Bill Brady, Matt Murphy, John O. Jones, Larry K. Bomke, Carole Pankau-Dan Kotowski-Mattie Hunter-Tim Bivins, Frank C. Watson and Gary G. Dahl
House Sponsors
(Rep. Jack McGuire-Paul D. Froehlich-Elizabeth Hernandez-Lou Lang, Fred Crespo, Edward J. Acevedo and Mike Boland)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Income Tax Act. Creates an income tax credit for employers who pay costs in connection with a qualified wellness program. Provides that the amount of the credit is 50% of those costs per year up to $200 per employee for the first 200 employees and $100 per employee for the remaining employees. Sets forth the requirements for qualified wellness programs. Provides that the credit may not be carried forward or back and may not reduce the taxpayer's liability to less than zero. Effective immediately.
House Amendment No. 1
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Income Tax Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.
House Amendment No. 2
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Intermodal Facilities Promotion Act. Provides that the incremental income tax attributable to a new employee of an individual, partnership, corporation, or other entity that owns and operates an intermodal terminal facility in the City of Joliet shall be deposited into the Intermodal Facilities Promotion Fund. Provides that moneys in the Fund shall be used by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to make grants to the eligible developer for infrastructure improvements. Sets limits on the grants. Effective immediately.
Last Action 

SB 2362
Short Description:  PEN CD-ART 4-MILITARY SERVICE
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Dan Cronin-Michael Bond-Jeffrey M. Schoenberg and Michael Noland
House Sponsors
(Rep. Angelo Saviano-Dennis M. Reboletti-Bob Biggins)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Downstate Firefighter Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that the governing body of a municipality may elect to allow creditable service for up to 24 months of military service served prior to employment by a municipality, but no credible service shall be allowed for such person for any period that can be used in the computation of a pension or any other pay or benefit, other than pay for active duty. Requires contributions to the fund equal to (i) the employee contributions that would have been required had the service been rendered as a member, plus (ii) an amount determined by the fund to be equal to the employer's normal cost of the benefits accrued for that military service, plus (iii) interest. Provides that the changes apply only to participating employees in service on or after the effective date of the amendatory Act. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1
     Removes language that provides that no credible service shall be allowed for such person for any period that can be used in the computation of a pension or any other pay or benefit, other than pay for active duty. Provides that the written application to receive credit for the service must be made to the fund within 6 months after the municipality elects to allow the service, rather than 6 months after the effective date.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Downstate Firefighter Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Allows a firefighter to establish creditable service for up to 24 months of service in the military, naval, or air forces of the United States that was served prior to employment by a municipality or fire protection district as a firefighter. Requires payment of (i) the employee contributions that would have been required had the service been rendered as a member, plus (ii) an amount determined by the fund to be equal to the employer's normal cost of the benefits accrued for that military service, plus (iii) interest at the rate of 6% per year, compounded annually from the first date of membership in the fund to the date of payment on items (i) and (ii). Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.

Last Action 

SB 2397
Short Description:  PUB LABOR-EMERGENCY SERVICES
Senate Sponsors
Sen. John J. Cullerton and Kimberly A. Lightford
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. With respect to the Act's provisions applicable to security employees, peace officers, fire fighters, and paramedics, includes emergency service support staff.
Senate Committee Amendment No. 2
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. With respect to the Act's provisions applicable to security employees, peace officers, fire fighters, and paramedics, includes emergency service support staff (defined as a dispatcher or telecommunicator of a police, sheriff, or fire department or a probation officer). Provides that all emergency service support staff dispatch, telecommunication, and similar services and all probation officer services shall be performed by public employees and shall not be contracted, subcontracted, or delegated.

Last Action 

SB 2422
Short Description:  NEW VEHICLE PROTECT-FIRE TRUCK
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Ira I. Silverstein
House Sponsors
(Rep. Jack D. Franks)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the New Vehicle Buyer Protection Act. Includes vehicles purchased by a fire department, fire protection district, or township fire department in the definition of "vehicle" and includes a fire department, fire protection district, or township fire department in the definition of "consumer".
Last Action 

SB 2434
Short Description:  MOBILE HOME PARK FIRE SAFETY
Senate Sponsors
Sen. David Koehler-Christine Radogno-Jacqueline Y. Collins and Michael Noland-M. Maggie Crotty
House Sponsors
(Rep. Robert F. Flider-Michael K. Smith)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Mobile Home Park Act. Provides that the agreement required in the case of a mobile home park that does not have a private water supply system and hydrants must be signed and dated by the owner of the mobile home park or his or her representative and by the local fire chief or his or her representative and must be submitted with each application for an original license or license renewal application under the Act. Provides that a mobile home park constructed after January 1, 1998 must be located in an area protected by a fire department or fire protection district and provided with fire hydrants within 500 feet of any structure in the mobile home park. Provides that as an alternative to fire hydrants, a holding pond or other source of water of 100,000 gallons or more accessible to the fire department or fire protection district may be used, if the fire department or fire protection district is capable of pumping from the body of water. Provides minimum standards for water main size and for system pressure. Eliminates a provision that a mobile home park constructed before 1998 is not required to install new water supply systems or hydrants for fire safety purposes.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 1
     Changes a reference to "representative" to "designee". Provides that certification that an agreement with respect to an adequate and reliable water supply for fire mitigation needs exists shall be signed by the owner of the mobile home park or his or her designee and by the local fire chief or his or her designee and submitted with each application for original licensure or licensure renewal under the Act (instead of providing that a copy of the agreement shall be submitted with each application for an original license or license renewal application required under the Act). Provides that a copy of this agreement shall be on file at the local fire department or fire protection district and posted in public view at the mobile home park site and available for inspection. Deletes amendatory provisions concerning standards for mobile home parks constructed after January 1, 1998. Restores a provision stating that nothing in the Act's fire safety provisions shall be construed to mandate a mobile home park, constructed prior to 1998, to install new water supply systems or hydrants for fire safety purposes.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 2
     Provides that a copy of the agreement for an adequate and reliable water supply for fire mitigation needs shall be posted at the mobile home park site "by the mobile home park owner or his or her designee".
Last Action 

   SB 2488
Short Description:  VEH CD, CRIM CD-EMERGENCY VEH
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Gary Forby, Matt Murphy, John O. Jones, Larry K. Bomke and Gary G. Dahl
House Sponsors
(Rep. John E. Bradley-Kevin Joyce-Lisa M. Dugan-Mike Boland-Donald L. Moffitt, Michael K. Smith, Daniel V. Beiser, David R. Leitch, Raymond Poe, Naomi D. Jakobsson, William B. Black, Brandon W. Phelps, Mike Bost and Sidney H. Mathias)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Provides that an officer of a fire department, in the performance of his or her official duties, has the authority to close to traffic a highway, or a lane or lanes of a highway, as necessary to protect the safety of persons or property. Amends the Criminal Code of 1961. Increases the penalties for the offense of reckless homicide if the offense is committed as a result of failing to follow the procedures required when approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle. Further increases the penalties if the defendant causes the deaths of 2 or more persons as part of a single course of conduct.
Senate Committee Amendment No. 1
     Replaces the language amending the Illinois Vehicle Code with new language providing that, in the absence of a law enforcement officer or a representative of a highway agency having jurisdiction over a highway, an officer of a fire department has the authority to close to traffic a highway or lanes of a highway to protect persons or property. Also provides that the fire department officer shall use an official fire department vehicle with lighted red or white oscillating, rotating, or flashing lights and proper temporary traffic control. Contains provisions regarding training. Creates an exception for highways under the jurisdiction of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority.
Last Action 

SB 2532
Short Description:  MUNI CD-FOREIGN FIRE INS BOARD
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Iris Y. Martinez
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that a Section of the Code concerning the election of officers to the department foreign fire insurance board applies to the corporate authorities of any municipality (instead of any municipality containing less than 250,000 inhabitants) with an organized fire department.
Last Action 

SB 2654
Short Description:  CDB-LOCAL GOVT-BUILDING CODE
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Terry Link-A. J. Wilhelmi-William E. Peterson-Dale E. Risinger
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Open Meetings Act. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 3
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Capital Development Board Act. Requires each local government (defined as a municipality, county, or fire protection district) that has not adopted a model minimum building code to adopt such a building code based on specified industry codes, State codes, and State agency rules. Requires that persons enforcing the building codes be qualified by the State or certified by certification organizations. Authorizes local governments to enter into agreements with governmental entities or private providers to issue building permits and perform inspections. Provides that the provisions apply beginning July 1, 2010. Exempts new residential buildings subject to the Illinois Residential Building Code Act. Amends the Illinois Residential Building Code Act. Redefines the International Residential Code as the 2006 International Residential Code, and changes a reference to the National Electric Code to the 2005 edition NFPA 70 National Electric Code.
Last Action 

SB 2743
Short Description:  MUNI TIF-FIRE PROTECTION
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland-Don Harmon
House Sponsors
(Rep. Charles E. Jefferson-Dave Winters)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act in the Illinois Municipal Code. In the definition of "redevelopment project costs", includes a fire protection district's increased costs attributable to the redevelopment project area. Sets forth a method of calculating amounts to be paid to the fire protection district.

Senate Floor Amendment No. 1
     Further amends the Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act in the Illinois Municipal Code. Changes the definition of "redevelopment project costs" to provide that a fire protection district's increased costs attributable to the redevelopment project area shall be paid to the fire protection district by the municipality from the Special Tax Allocation Fund if the district is not subject to an intergovernmental agreement for the purposes of funding the increased costs of the district because of new development.
House Amendment No. 1
     Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that the hearing date for a code violation involving a municipal ordinance regulating truants must be not less than 7 nor more than 40 days after the violation is reported. Provides that a fine imposed by a municipal ordinance regulating truants may not exceed $100, or community service, or both for violators age 13 and under (now, age 10 and under). Provides that the parent or custodian of the violator is subject to the fine or community service if the violator is under the age of 13. Specifies the local officials or authorities that are designated as (i) part of the juvenile justice system and (ii) "juvenile authorities". Provides that a school district may disclose education records relating to attendance to juvenile authorities if the school board determines the disclosure will enhance the juvenile justice system's ability to serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. Specifies the procedure for the disclosure of student attendance records. Provides that the juvenile authority must certify in writing that the records will not be disclosed to any other entity without the prior written consent of the student's parent or custodian, except as provided under State law.
Last Action 

SB 2744
Short Description:  MUNI CD-FIREFIGHTERS
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland and Martin A. Sandoval
House Sponsors
(Rep. Donald L. Moffitt)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that any municipality may require that all firefighters hired by the municipality on or after the effective date of the amendatory Act meet certain licensure requirements.
Last Action 

SB 2745
Short Description:  FIRE INVESTIGTN-COLLEGE PROPRT
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Fire Investigation Act. Provides that the fire chief, or a subordinate delegated by the fire chief, of any municipality or fire protection district that contains, in whole or in part, a university, college, or community college or that has a university, college, or community college within one mile of the boundaries of the municipality or fire protection district may inspect of any rental property within the corporate boundaries of a municipality to ensure compliance with the fire and life safety codes in force in the municipality or fire protection district. Provides that, if the municipality or fire protection district has not adopted a fire or life safety code, the code for Fire Prevention and Safety as modified and adopted by the Office of the State Fire Marshal shall be used.
Last Action 

SB 2747
Short Description:  TORT IMMUNITY-FIRE PROTECTION
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland-Dale E. Risinger and Pamela J. Althoff
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Fire Protection and Rescue Services Article of the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act. For purposes of the Article, defines "local public entity" to include, but not be limited to, a private person, organization, or corporation that provides support or assistance to a fire department, fire protection district, or rescue squad district during an emergency at the specific request of the fire chief or the chief's designee of a fire department, fire protection district, or rescue squad district pursuant to a formal mutual aid system such as the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System.
Last Action 

 SB 2748
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-EMPLOYMENT
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland
House Sponsors
(Rep. Donald L. Moffitt-Michael K. Smith-Mike Bost-Thomas Holbrook-Timothy L. Schmitz)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that any elected or appointed trustee of a fire protection district is entitled to be absent from his or her employment during meetings of the board of trustees of the district. Provides that the employer is not required to compensate the trustee for time that the trustee is absent.
Last Action 

SB 2749
Short Description:  FIRE PROTECTION-TECH RESCUE
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Pamela J. Althoff-William E. Peterson
House Sponsors
(Rep. Donald L. Moffitt-Michael K. Smith-Mike Bost-Thomas Holbrook-Timothy L. Schmitz)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the Township Code, the Illinois Municipal Code, and the Fire Protection District Act. Provides that a township, municipality, or fire protection district may fix, charge, and collect reasonable fees for technical rescue services.

Last Action 

SB 2750
Short Description:  BOAT SAFETY FEE-$5-RESCUE TEAM
Senate Sponsors
Sen. Michael Noland-Terry Link and Pamela J. Althoff
Synopsis As Introduced
     Amends the State Finance Act and the Boat Registration and Safety Act. Increases by $5 the fee for each watercraft identification number application and each transfer-renewal and renewal, and provides that $5 of each fee shall be deposited into the Maritime and Underwater Rescue Teams Fund, a new special fund in the State treasury. Provides that moneys in the Fund shall be used, subject to appropriation, for establishing, training, equipping, and operating maritime and underwater rescue teams in fire departments throughout the State.

Last Action 

 SB 2760
Short Description:  ELECTRICIANS LICENSING ACT
Senate Sponsors
Sen. William R. Haine, J. Bradley Burzynski-Dale E. Risinger-Deanna Demuzio, James F. Clayborne, Jr., John O. Jones, Terry Link and William Delgado
House Sponsors
(Rep. Daniel J. Burke-David E. Miller-Angelo Saviano-Cynthia Soto-Susana A Mendoza, Arthur L. Turner, Sara Feigenholtz and Elizabeth Coulson)
Synopsis As Introduced
     Creates the Electricians Licensing Act. Provides for the regulation of electricians and electrical contractors by the Department of Labor. Sets forth powers and duties of the Director of Labor, licensure requirements, grounds for discipline, penalties for violation of the Act, and administrative procedure. Establishes the Illinois State Board of Electrical Examiners. Provides for concurrent exercise by home rule units. Amends the Regulatory Sunset Act to set a repeal date for the new Act of January 1, 2019. Effective January 1, 2009.
Senate Floor Amendment No. 1
     Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Regulatory Sunset Act to change the repeal date of the Illinois Architecture Practice Act of 1989 and the Professional Engineering Practice Act of 1989 from January 1, 2010 to January 1, 2020. Amends the Illinois Architecture Practice Act of 1989. Provides that no officer, board, commission, or other public entity charged with the enforcement of codes and ordinances requiring the involvement of an architect shall accept for filing or approval any technical submissions that do not bear the seal and signature of an architect licensed under the Act and that a building permit issued with respect to technical submissions that does not conform to the requirements of this Act shall be invalid. Provides for the establishment of the Architecture Complaint Committee. Makes changes in provisions concerning definitions, technical submissions, powers and duties of the Department and the Board, the Architecture Licensing Board, examinations, qualifications, professional design firm registration, disciplinary action, and investigations. Allows the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to grant the title "Architect, Retired" Provides for the imposition of a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 (instead of $5,000) for each violation of certain provisions of the Act. Amends the Professional Engineering Practice Act of 1989. Provides that a building permit issued with respect to technical submissions that do not conform to the requirements of the Act shall be invalid. Sets forth additional examples of the practice of professional engineering. Sets forth examples of technical submissions. Defines "design/build" and "design/build entity" and makes changes in the definition of "technical submissions". Provides for the establishment of the Professional Engineer Complaint Committee. Allows the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to grant the title "Retired" to eligible retirees to be used immediately adjacent to the title of Professional Engineer. Provides for the imposition of a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 (instead of $5,000) for each violation of certain provisions of the Act. Makes other changes.
Last Action 

 R 940
Short Description:  BAN TOY CIGARETTE LIGHTERS
House Sponsors
Rep. Donald L. Moffitt-Karen May-Sidney H. Mathias and Harry Osterman

Synopsis As Introduced
      Urges the United States Congress to support a ban on the sale of novelty cigarette lighters that resemble toys.
Last Action