Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove) released the following statement in response to Gov. Pritzker signing HB1353:
“Like many other states, Illinois is battling a first responder recruitment and retention crisis making it difficult to attract the necessary number of firefighters, police officers, and EMTs to careers in emergency services. I am proud to sponsor this legislation to provide more employment protections for volunteer emergency worker heroes to ensure they do not lose their paid positions, and help accomodate their increased training. I commend Governor Pritzker for signing this important legislation, and hope it will encourage more participation in these vital public safety programs.”