CHICAGO – A series of measures passed by state Rep. Mary Gill, D-Chicago, were recently signed into law, including a plan to require municipalities to set aside additional resources for fire and ambulance emergency vehicles and a proposal to expand awareness of lifesaving Silver Alerts for the developmentally disabled community.
“These are bipartisan measures championed by local residents that will improve public safety and help our community,” Gill said. “It’s critical that Springfield not only reflects the policy suggestions of local experts, but that it serves as a strong partner to improve the safety and wellbeing of families.”
Measures spearheaded by Gill and recently signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker into law include:
– House Bill 2977, which requires municipalities to place at least 10% of all insurance reimbursements for ambulance and fire services into a fund dedicated to purchasing and maintaining ambulances, fire engines and other vehicles used for emergency services. Gill introduced the plan after learning from union fire officials that reimbursements currently go into municipal general revenue funds, where they may be spent on unrelated items.
– Senate Bill 1548, which expands the ability for the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) to develop awareness of their Endangered Missing Person Advisory system by better connecting with individuals with developmental disabilities and relevant organizations that serve them. When every moment matters, these “Silver Alerts” are a critical public notification system used by law enforcement to locate missing individuals that may be at risk of harm or injury.
– Senate Bill 1523, which looks to target fraud related to property deeds by requiring county recorders to develop a fraud referral and review process to better alert property owners.
All three measures passed with bipartisan support and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
For more information, please contact RepMaryGill@gmail.com.