Legislation enabling sheriffs to play a pivotal role in Illinois’ 9-1-1 emergency systems was recently signed into law.

House Bill 5128, sponsored by Senator Dale Fowler, amends the Emergency Telephone System Act to explicitly recognize sheriffs as eligible members of local 9-1-1 boards, ensuring their insights and leadership contribute to vital functions.

The Senate sponsor noted that the legislation was crafted to recognize the expertise and insights of law enforcement officers by integrating them into the decision-making processes. 9-1-1 boards are deeply involved in planning, implementing, and maintaining local 9-1-1 systems

House Bill 5128 received unanimous support in both chambers earlier this spring and was signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker on July 19.