Moylan Backs Legislation to Increase Resources for First Responders and Preserve Local Services

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – First responders and other local services provided by towns and villages would receive additional funding under legislation sponsored by state Rep. Marty Moylan, D-Des Plaines, which was recently approved by the House.

“As a former mayor, I know how important these funds are to protecting public safety and preserving local services,” Moylan said. “Restoring these vital funds will help our local governments better equip our first responders and preserve the services they provide to residents.”

Traditionally, the state has sent 10 percent of the total income tax it collects back to municipalities through the Local Government Distributive Fund.  In 2011, this funding was cut to just 6 percent of total income tax receipts.  Moylan’s House Bill 278 will restore this funding to the previous level to ensure local municipalities get the same amount of money as they have previously been receiving. These resources are generally used to hire and equip police officers, fire fighters, and other first responders. Both the Association of Firefighters and the Fraternal Order of Police are supportive of Moylan’s legislation.

“It’s vital we take steps to prevent the budget crisis in Springfield from jeopardizing the services so many residents rely on,” Moylan said. “We must also have the backs of our first responders who risk their lives every day serving our community.”