IL SB1611

Grants state employees who are firefighters up to 200 hours of paid leave on one occasion to obtain Basic Operations Firefighter certification from the State Fire Marshal at an approved fire academy.

Provides up to 80 hours of annual paid leave for special or advanced training courses leading to additional State Fire Marshal certification after obtaining basic certification.

Limits total leave to 200 hours per calendar year, during which employees continue receiving regular compensation and accruing seniority and benefits.

Requires employees to request leave at least 14 calendar days in advance; agencies cannot deny approved requests unless they demonstrate the leave would create a workplace health or safety hazard and written denial is provided within 24 hours.

Applies to permanent, full-time state employees employed for 6 months or more who are members of a fire department or fire protection district recognized by the State Fire Marshal.