Carbondale Reporter

Illinois House Republicans have introduced several bills aimed at supporting first responders, highlighting the critical role these professionals play in public safety. First responders, including firefighters, police officers, and paramedics, often work long hours in high-stress and dangerous environments to keep communities safe.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates there are 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders across the United States. This group includes about 1.1 million firefighters—most of whom are volunteers—approximately 800,000 police officers, and over 240,000 paramedics and EMTs. They respond to around 240 million calls each year, handling everything from routine emergencies to large-scale disasters.

First responders face unique challenges due to the nature of their work. Studies show they experience higher rates of stress-related conditions than the general population. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions such as depression or PTSD, compared to 20% among others.

Several Illinois House Republicans who have served as first responders themselves are sponsoring legislation focused on wellness, mental health, legal protections, and financial relief for emergency personnel.

Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Homer Glen), a police officer with nearly two decades of service, introduced HB1634 to provide a tax credit of up to $250 for unreimbursed wellness expenses incurred by those serving at least ten months per year. He also co-sponsored HB2551 to reinstate 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), who has worked as a police officer for almost thirty years, proposed HB1031 to establish penalties for individuals interfering with emergency personnel after being warned to stay back. The bill makes such interference a Class A misdemeanor. Cabello also opposes proposals allowing 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.”

Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva), a former volunteer firefighter, introduced HB1324 for a $500 income tax credit for full-time police officers, firefighters, and rescue workers. He also sponsored HB2357 making it a Class 4 felony to block emergency vehicles on public roads for more than five minutes during demonstrations or protests. “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.”

Republican lawmakers regularly hold roundtable discussions with leaders in the first responder community to inform their legislative efforts. Recently Representatives Ugaste and Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) hosted their annual First Responders Roundtable with dozens of northern Illinois police and fire chiefs. Last year’s event led to new legislation removing barriers preventing some firefighters from operating emergency vehicles; this year’s meeting addressed topics like regulations for ebikes/escooters and concerns about commercial entities exploiting Illinois’ FOIA law for profit purposes.

“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.

These initiatives reflect ongoing efforts by Illinois lawmakers—including those recently elected such as Dave Severin who represents the state's 116th House District—to support those responsible for community safety through legislative action focused on tax relief, mental health support, and operational protections.