SPRINGFIELD – A measure introduced by State Senator Patrick Joyce aims to encourage more people to complete firefighter training to address the shortage Illinois is currently facing in finding firefighters.

“The number of volunteer firefighters has been declining for almost a decade,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This opportunity would give people the chance to get proper firefighter training to become an experienced volunteer in their communities.”

Fire departments all over the state have faced a shortage of new recruits and volunteer firefighters in recent years. Senate Bill 1611 is an initiative to combat these shortages to give people the opportunity to undergo firefighter training courses.

Senate Bill 1611 would create the Firefighter Training Leave of Absence Act, which would provide state employees leave from their state employment for firefighter training.

“People in our communities rely on first responders for countless issues,” said Joyce. “It’s important that we address this shortage to make sure emergency responders have enough resources to respond quickly.”

Senate Bill 1611 passed the Senate State Government Committee Wednesday and awaits further consideration before the full Senate.