SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel led a new law boosting financial security for first responders who are injured or become ill while on duty.
“First responders put their lives on the line every day, and we should recognize them for that,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “One way we can do that is by making sure first responders receive the compensation and benefits they’re owed.”
In 2023, 48,000 Illinois police officers became injured or ill on the job, and over 10 Illinois firefighters suffered an injury per 1,000 fires. Most first responders rely on their salary and do not always have enough money saved up to get them through their non-working time, leading Loughran Cappel to champion a new law to make sure these local heroes receive their recognition.
Employers currently withhold both state and federal taxes from disability payments, but disability payments do not count toward a first responder’s adjusted gross income. While collecting disability payments, first responders have received reduced salaries.
Under Loughran Cappel’s law, public employers will be required to maintain first responders’ base salaries if they are unable to perform their jobs due to becoming injured or ill in the line of duty. This includes taxes, union dues, pension contributions and insurance premiums. However, the money will still be taxed if it is part of the first responder’s adjusted gross income.
“Many first responders cannot pay essential living costs without their salaries, so if they suffer an injury or illness while working, they may not be able to make ends meet,” said Loughran Cappel. “Ensuring that first responders do not have to decide between buying groceries and paying for electricity is one of the best ways we can thank them for keeping us safe.”
House Bill 4491 was signed into law July 24 and takes effect Jan. 1.
