SE Illinois News

First responders play a key role in public safety, responding to emergencies and disasters across the United States. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that there are about 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders nationwide, including roughly 1.1 million firefighters—most of whom are volunteers—800,000 police officers, and over 240,000 paramedics and EMTs. These individuals answer approximately 240 million calls each year.

The demanding nature of their work means first responders often experience high levels of stress and exposure to traumatic situations. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions such as depression or PTSD, compared to 20% in the general population.

Several House Republicans in Illinois with backgrounds as first responders have introduced legislation aimed at supporting these workers. Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Homer Glen), who has nearly two decades of experience as a police officer, put forward HB1634, which would provide a tax credit up to $250 for unreimbursed wellness expenses for those serving at least ten months annually. Sheehan 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 served almost thirty years as a police officer, introduced HB1031 to protect emergency personnel from harassment while on duty by establishing penalties for interfering with them after being warned to stay back. He has also voiced concerns about 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.”

Former volunteer firefighter Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) introduced HB1324 proposing a $500 income tax credit for full-time police officers, firefighters, and rescue workers due to financial pressures many face in their roles. Another measure he sponsored, HB2357, makes it a Class 4 felony to block emergency responders on public roadways for more than five minutes during public demonstrations. “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 routinely meet with leaders from the first responder community through roundtable discussions to identify legislative solutions supporting these workers’ needs.

Recently, Representatives Ugaste and Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) hosted their annual First Responders Roundtable with northern Illinois police and fire chiefs. Last year’s event led to new legislation removing barriers for some firefighters operating emergency vehicles; this year’s discussion included regulatory changes related to ebikes/escooters and closing loopholes in Illinois’ FOIA law used by commercial entities 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.

Patrick Windhorst was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 117th House District in 2023 following Natalie Phelps Finnie .

Lawmakers say these combined efforts—including tax relief measures, mental health support initiatives, and legal protections—demonstrate an ongoing commitment by Illinois legislators toward addressing challenges faced by first responders.