SE Illinois News

State Senator Dale Fowler has sponsored legislation to amend the Emergency Telephone System Act, thereby explicitly allowing sheriffs to serve on local 9-1-1 boards. The move is aimed at acknowledging the crucial role that sheriffs play in ensuring community safety and well-being.

House Bill 5128 addresses a longstanding issue by formally enabling sheriffs to participate on local 9-1-1 boards. These boards are instrumental in planning, implementing, and maintaining our 9-1-1 systems. Their responsibilities include receiving and managing 9-1-1 surcharge funds, authorizing disbursements, and hiring necessary staff to support system operations and upgrades.

Senator Fowler believes that including sheriffs on these boards will ensure their expertise and insights as law enforcement officers are incorporated into decision-making processes that directly affect emergency response services.

The legislation was passed by the Senate on May 16th and will now proceed to the Governor’s desk for his signature.