IL HB4104

Amends Section 805-535 of the Department of Natural Resources (Conservation) Law to establish requirements for Conservation Police Officers.

Requires the Department of Natural Resources to maintain a sworn police force of at least 175 personnel by July 1, 2020, with incremental hiring beginning in Fiscal Year 2016 and mandatory rehiring procedures if the force drops below 165 officers.

Establishes minimum professional standards for persons hired after July 1, 2001 for sworn law enforcement positions, including either a 2-year degree with 3 years of police experience or a 4-year degree.

Requires new hires to demonstrate intermediate-level swimming competency using American Red Cross techniques and to complete police officer certification and a Conservation Police Academy training program of at least 400 hours within one year of hire.

Exempts veterans and active members of the Illinois National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces reserves who received specific military service medals from collegiate educational requirements for sworn law enforcement positions.