HB0809 Summary

• Joint Labor and Management Committee (JLMC) may establish community outreach programs to recruit diverse firefighter and firefighter-paramedic applicants, but participation is optional rather than mandatory.

• Establishes master register of eligibles based on mental aptitude written exams, physical ability tests, and preference points; candidates remain eligible for 2 years from certification date.

• Physical ability exams must test muscular strength, ability to work at heights and in dark/hazardous conditions, and problem-solving during physical exertion in stressful environments using industry-standard tests.

• Applicants passing exams serve as firefighter or firefighter-paramedic apprentices for 12 months or less; Joint Apprenticeship Committee of 4 members (or 2 in certain circumstances) evaluates apprentice performance and votes to retain or terminate.

• Applies to Illinois Municipal Code Sections 10-1-7.2 and 10-2.1-6.4, and Fire Protection District Act Section 16.06c; does not apply to municipalities with over 1 million inhabitants.