IL HB2448

Removes the July 1, 2022 hiring date restriction and lowers the minimum age requirement for Conservation Police Officers from 21 to 20 years old if they have completed an associate's degree or 60 college credit hours.

Persons hired at age 20 with college credentials cannot exercise arrest powers or carry firearms until reaching age 21.

Requires all hired Conservation Police Officers to demonstrate swimming competency at a level approved by the Department in administrative rules.

Mandates successful certification under the Illinois Police Training Act and completion of at least 400 hours of Conservation Police Academy training within one year of hire.

Allows certain military veterans to satisfy the collegiate education requirement, including those honorably discharged with specific combat or service medals, or those with at least 3 years of active duty service.