IL HB2141

Removes the requirement that firefighters with 10+ years of experience must have that experience at the specific fire department where they are being appointed as fire chief.

Allows a person who does not meet any of the four specified fire chief qualifications to be appointed for up to one year on the condition they obtain one of the required certifications within that year.

The four qualification pathways for fire chief appointments are: (1) State Fire Marshal certifications plus fire science degree; (2) International Fire Service Accreditation Congress certifications plus fire science degree; (3) NFPA standards qualifications plus fire science degree; or (4) minimum 10 years' firefighter experience.

Applies to municipalities under the Illinois Municipal Code and fire protection districts under the Fire Protection District Act, except municipalities with more than 1,000,000 inhabitants.

Effective January 1, 2020.