Section 141.255  Invalidation of Candidate’s State Certifications or Recertifications

a)         A previously awarded certification may be invalidated when it is determined by the Division that one of the following has occurred:

1)         A Certification was awarded based upon erroneous documentation in training records or erroneous documentation submitted to the Division; or

2)         Cheating on the State Written or Practical Examination; or

3)         Any other basis for invalidation as set out in Section 141.210.

b)         A previously awarded recertification may be invalidated when it is determined by the Division that a recertification was awarded based upon erroneous documentation. When it is determined that a certification is invalidated under subsection (a), all subsequent recertifications shall also be invalidated.

c)         When the Division determines that evidence of an occurrence listed in subsection (a) or (b) exists to invalidate a candidate’s State Certification or Recertification, the Division shall:

1)         Invalidate the specific certifications or recertifications involved in the occurrence;

2)         Provide written notification to all fire service personnel whose certifications or recertifications were invalidated and explanation of the situation and reasons for invalidation, including the right to appeal the invalidation and the procedure for appeal; and

3)         Provide written notification to the chiefs of all fire service personnel whose certifications or recertifications were invalidated and explanation of the situation and reasons for invalidation, including the right to appeal the invalidation and the procedure for appeal.

d)         Records of invalidation of certifications or recertifications shall be retained by the Division, including all applicable documentation referencing the invalidation of the certification or recertification.

e)         Where certifications are invalidated, fire service personnel who meet the prerequisites set forth in Subpart D and requirements set forth in Section 141.250 may reapply for certification upon verification and attestation by the employing chief.

f)         Where recertifications are invalidated, fire service personnel who hold the certification and meet the prerequisites set forth in Section 141.390 may reapply for recertification upon verification and attestation by the employing chief.

g)         Any candidate whose certifications or recertifications are invalidated may request a hearing, in accordance with Section 141.50.

(Source:  Added at 47 Ill. Reg. 424, effective January 1, 2023)