SB3659 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

LRB104 18339 BDA 31779 b

104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2025 and 2026
SB3659

Introduced 2/5/2026, by Sen. Christopher Belt

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

20 ILCS 3305/1	from Ch. 127, par. 1051
20 ILCS 3305/2	from Ch. 127, par. 1052
20 ILCS 3305/3	from Ch. 127, par. 1053
20 ILCS 3305/4	from Ch. 127, par. 1054
20 ILCS 3305/5	from Ch. 127, par. 1055
20 ILCS 3305/5.5 new
20 ILCS 3305/6	from Ch. 127, par. 1056
20 ILCS 3305/7	from Ch. 127, par. 1057
20 ILCS 3305/8	from Ch. 127, par. 1058
20 ILCS 3305/10	from Ch. 127, par. 1060
20 ILCS 3305/12	from Ch. 127, par. 1062
20 ILCS 3305/14	from Ch. 127, par. 1064
20 ILCS 3305/18	from Ch. 127, par. 1068
20 ILCS 3305/20	from Ch. 127, par. 1070
20 ILCS 3305/23

Amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. Updates definitions and terminology. Expands Agency powers and responsibilities for emergency management and homeland security. Creates the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator within the Agency and specifies duties. Makes related changes concerning planning, coordination, and mutual aid. Effective immediately.

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning State government.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 5. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act is amended by changing Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 20, and 23 and by adding Section 5.5 as follows:

(20 ILCS 3305/1) (from Ch. 127, par. 1051)

Sec. 1. Short Title. This Act may be cited as the Illinois Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency Act.

(Source: P.A. 87-168.)

(20 ILCS 3305/2) (from Ch. 127, par. 1052)

Sec. 2. Policy and Purposes.

(a) Because of the possibility of the occurrence of disasters of unprecedented size and destructiveness resulting from the explosion in this or in neighboring states of atomic or other means from without or by means of sabotage or other disloyal actions within, or from fire, flood, earthquake, telecommunications failure, or other natural or technological causes, and in order to insure that this State will be prepared to and will adequately deal with any disasters, preserve the lives and property of the people of this State and protect the public peace, health, and safety in the event of a disaster, it is found and declared to be necessary:

(1) To create a State emergency management and homeland security agency an Illinois Emergency Management Agency and to authorize emergency management programs within the political subdivisions of the State.

(2) To confer upon the Governor and upon the principal executive officer of the political subdivisions of the State the powers provided herein.

(3) To provide for the rendering of mutual aid among the political subdivisions and taxing districts of the State and with other states and with respect to the carrying out of an emergency management and homeland security programs program.

(b) It is further declared to be the purpose of this Act and the policy of the State that all emergency management and homeland security programs of this State be coordinated to the maximum extent with the comparable programs of the federal government, including its various departments and agencies, of other states and localities and private agencies of every type, to the end that the most effective preparation and use may be made of the nation's resources and facilities for dealing with any disaster that may occur.

(Source: P.A. 87-168; 88-606, eff. 1-1-95.)

(20 ILCS 3305/3) (from Ch. 127, par. 1053)

Sec. 3. Limitations. Nothing in this Act shall be construed to:

(a) Interfere with the course or conduct of a labor dispute, except that actions otherwise authorized by this Act or other laws may be taken when necessary to mitigate imminent or existing danger to public health or safety;

(b) Interfere with dissemination of news or comment of public affairs; but any communications facility or organization (including but not limited to radio and television stations, wire services, and newspapers) may be requested to transmit or print public service messages furnishing information or instructions in connection with a disaster;

(c) Affect the jurisdiction or responsibilities of police forces, fire fighting forces, units of the armed forces of the United States, or of any personnel thereof, when on active duty; but State and political subdivision emergency operations plans shall place reliance upon the forces available for performance of functions related to emergency management and homeland security;

(d) Limit, modify, or abridge the authority of the Governor to proclaim martial law or exercise any other powers vested in the Governor under the constitution, statutes, or common law of this State, independent of or in conjunction with any provisions of this Act; limit any home rule unit; or prohibit any contract or association pursuant to Article VII, Section 10 of the Illinois Constitution.

(Source: P.A. 92-73, eff. 1-1-02.)

(20 ILCS 3305/4) (from Ch. 127, par. 1054)

Sec. 4. Definitions. As used in this Act, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following words and terms have the meanings ascribed to them in this Section:

"Coordinator" means the staff assistant to the principal executive officer of a political subdivision with the duty of coordinating the emergency management programs of that political subdivision.

"Cyber incident" means an event occurring on or conducted through a computer network that actually or imminently jeopardizes the integrity, confidentiality, or availability of computers, information or communications systems or networks, physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by computers or information systems, or information resident thereon that affect or control infrastructure or communications networks utilized by the public. "Cyber incident" includes a vulnerability in information systems, system security procedures, internal controls, or implementations that could be exploited by a threat source that affect or control infrastructure or communications networks utilized by the public.

"Disaster" means an occurrence or threat of widespread or severe damage, injury or loss of life or property resulting from any natural, technological, or human cause, including but not limited to fire, flood, earthquake, wind, storm, hazardous materials spill or other water contamination requiring emergency action to avert danger or damage, epidemic, air contamination, blight, extended periods of severe and inclement weather, drought, infestation, critical shortages of essential fuels and energy, explosion, riot, hostile military or paramilitary action, public health emergencies, cyber incidents, or acts of domestic terrorism.

"Emergency Management" means the efforts of the State and the political subdivisions to develop, plan, analyze, conduct, provide, implement and maintain programs for disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

"Emergency Services and Disaster Agency" means the agency by this name, by the name Emergency Management Agency, or by any other name that is established by ordinance within a political subdivision to coordinate the emergency management program within that political subdivision and with private organizations, other political subdivisions, the State and federal governments.

"Emergency Operations Plan" means the written plan of the State and political subdivisions describing the organization, mission, and functions of the government and supporting services for responding to and recovering from disasters and shall include plans that take into account the needs of those individuals with household pets and service animals following a major disaster or emergency.

"Emergency Services" means the coordination of functions by the State and its political subdivisions subdivision, other than functions for which military forces are primarily responsible, as may be necessary or proper to prevent, minimize, repair, and alleviate injury and damage resulting from any natural or technological causes. These functions include, without limitation, fire fighting services, police services, emergency aviation services, medical and health services, HazMat and technical rescue teams, rescue, engineering, warning services, communications, radiological, chemical and other special weapons defense, evacuation of persons from stricken or threatened areas, emergency assigned functions of plant protection, temporary restoration of public utility services and other functions related to civilian protection, together with all other activities necessary or incidental to protecting life or property.

"Exercise" means an event or activity delivered through discussion or action to develop, assess, or validate capabilities to achieve planned objectives a planned event realistically simulating a disaster, conducted for the purpose of evaluating the political subdivision's coordinated emergency management capabilities, including, but not limited to, testing the emergency operations plan.

"HazMat team" means a career or volunteer mobile support team that has been authorized by a unit of local government to respond to hazardous materials emergencies and that is primarily designed for emergency response to chemical or biological terrorism, radiological emergencies, hazardous material spills, releases, or fires, or other contamination events.

"Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security" or "Agency" means the agency established by this Act within the executive branch of State Government responsible for coordination of the overall emergency management and homeland security programs program of the State and with private organizations, political subdivisions, and the federal government. Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security also means the State Emergency Response Commission responsible for the implementation of Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986.

"Incident" means a disaster that does not rise to the level of a Governor-issued proclamation.

"Mobile Support Team" or "MST" means a group of individuals designated as a team by the Governor or Director to train prior to and to be activated, if the Governor or the Director so determines, to aid and reinforce the State and political subdivision emergency management efforts in response to an incident, disaster, federally declared national special security event, or other large public event.

"Municipality" means any city, village, and incorporated town.

"Political Subdivision" means any county, city, village, or incorporated town or township if the township is in a county having a population of more than 2,000,000.

"Principal Executive Officer" means chair of the county board, supervisor of a township if the township is in a county having a population of more than 2,000,000, mayor of a city or incorporated town, president of a village, or in their absence or disability, the interim successor as established under Section 7 of the Emergency Interim Executive Succession Act.

"Public health emergency" means an occurrence or imminent threat of an illness or health condition that:

(a) is believed to be caused by any of the following:

(i) bioterrorism;

(ii) the appearance of a novel or previously controlled or eradicated infectious agent or biological toxin;

(iii) a natural disaster;

(iv) a chemical attack or accidental release; or

(v) a nuclear attack or accident; and

(b) poses a high probability of any of the following harms:

(i) a large number of deaths in the affected population;

(ii) a large number of serious or long-term disabilities in the affected population; or

(iii) widespread exposure to an infectious or toxic agent that poses a significant risk of substantial future harm to a large number of people in the affected population.

"Statewide mutual aid organization" means an entity with local government members throughout the State that facilitates temporary assistance through its members in a particular public safety discipline, such as police, fire or emergency management, when an occurrence exceeds a member jurisdiction's capabilities.

"Statewide Interoperability Coordinator" or "SWIC" means the position created in the Agency under Section 5.5 of this Act.

"Technical rescue team" means a career or volunteer mobile support team that has been authorized by a unit of local government to respond to building collapse, high angle rescue, and other specialized rescue emergencies and that is primarily designated for emergency response to technical rescue events.

(Source: P.A. 104-418, eff. 1-1-26.)

(20 ILCS 3305/5) (from Ch. 127, par. 1055)

Sec. 5. Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security.

(a) There is created within the executive branch of the State Government an Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security and a Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security, herein called the "Director" who shall be the head thereof. The Director shall be appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall serve for a term of 2 years beginning on the third Monday in January of the odd-numbered year, and until a successor is appointed and has qualified; except that the term of the first Director appointed under this Act shall expire on the third Monday in January, 1989. The Director shall not hold any other remunerative public office. For terms beginning after January 18, 2019 (the effective date of Public Act 100-1179) and before January 16, 2023, the annual salary of the Director shall be as provided in Section 5-300 of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for terms beginning on or after January 16, 2023, the Director shall receive an annual salary of $180,000 or as set by the Governor, whichever is higher. On July 1, 2023, and on each July 1 thereafter, the Director shall receive an increase in salary based on a cost of living adjustment as authorized by Senate Joint Resolution 192 of the 86th General Assembly.

For terms beginning on or after January 16, 2023, the Assistant Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall receive an annual salary of $156,600 or as set by the Governor, whichever is higher. On July 1, 2023, and on each July 1 thereafter, the Assistant Director shall receive an increase in salary based on a cost of living adjustment as authorized by Senate Joint Resolution 192 of the 86th General Assembly.

(b) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall obtain, under the provisions of the Personnel Code, technical, clerical, stenographic and other administrative personnel, and may make expenditures within the appropriation therefor as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this Act. The agency created by this Act is intended to be a successor to the agency created under the Illinois Emergency Services and Disaster Agency Act of 1975 and the personnel, equipment, records, and appropriations of that agency are transferred to the successor agency as of June 30, 1988 (the effective date of this Act).

(c) The Director, subject to the direction and control of the Governor, shall be the executive head of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Response Commission and shall be responsible under the direction of the Governor, for carrying out the programs program for emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security of this State. The Director shall also maintain liaison and cooperate with the emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security organizations of this State and other states and of the federal government.

(d) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall take an integral part in the development and revision of political subdivision emergency operations plans prepared under paragraph (f) of Section 10. To this end it shall employ or otherwise secure the services of professional and technical personnel capable of providing expert assistance to the emergency services and disaster agencies. These personnel shall consult with emergency services and disaster agencies on a regular basis and shall make field examinations of the areas, circumstances, and conditions that particular political subdivision emergency operations plans are intended to apply.

(e) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and political subdivisions shall be encouraged to form an emergency management advisory committee composed of private and public personnel representing the emergency management phases of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The Local Emergency Planning Committee, as created under the Illinois Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act, shall serve as an advisory committee to the emergency services and disaster agency or agencies serving within the boundaries of that Local Emergency Planning Committee planning district for:

(1) the development of emergency operations plan provisions for hazardous chemical emergencies; and

(2) the assessment of emergency response capabilities related to hazardous chemical emergencies.

(f) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall:

(1) Coordinate the overall emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security programs program of the State.

(2) Cooperate with local governments, the federal government, and any public or private agency or entity in achieving any purpose of this Act and in implementing emergency management programs for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

(2.5) Develop a comprehensive emergency preparedness and response plan for any nuclear accident in accordance with Section 65 of the Nuclear Safety Law of 2004 and in development of the Illinois Nuclear Safety Preparedness program in accordance with Section 8 of the Illinois Nuclear Safety Preparedness Act.

(2.6) Coordinate with the Department of Public Health with respect to planning for and responding to public health emergencies.

(3) Prepare, for issuance by the Governor, executive orders, proclamations, and regulations as necessary or appropriate in coping with disasters.

(4) Promulgate rules and requirements for political subdivision emergency operations plans that are not inconsistent with and are at least as stringent as applicable federal laws and regulations.

(5) Review and approve, in accordance with Illinois Emergency Management Agency rules, emergency operations plans for those political subdivisions required to have an emergency services and disaster agency pursuant to this Act.

(5.5) Promulgate rules and requirements for the political subdivision emergency management exercises, including, but not limited to, exercises of the emergency operations plans.

(5.10) Review, evaluate, and approve, in accordance with Illinois Emergency Management Agency rules, political subdivision emergency management exercises for those political subdivisions required to have an emergency services and disaster agency pursuant to this Act.

(6) Determine requirements of the State and its political subdivisions for food, clothing, and other necessities in event of a disaster.

(7) Establish a register of persons with types of emergency management training and skills in mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

(8) Establish a register of government and private response resources available for use in a disaster.

(9) Expand the Earthquake Awareness Program and its efforts to distribute earthquake preparedness materials to schools, political subdivisions, community groups, civic organizations, and the media. Emphasis will be placed on those areas of the State most at risk from an earthquake. Maintain the list of all school districts, hospitals, airports, power plants, including nuclear power plants, lakes, dams, emergency response facilities of all types, and all other major public or private structures which are at the greatest risk of damage from earthquakes under circumstances where the damage would cause subsequent harm to the surrounding communities and residents.

(10) Disseminate all information, completely and without delay, on water levels for rivers and streams and any other data pertaining to potential flooding supplied by the Division of Water Resources within the Department of Natural Resources to all political subdivisions to the maximum extent possible.

(11) Develop agreements, if feasible, with medical supply and equipment firms to supply resources as are necessary to respond to an earthquake or any other disaster as defined in this Act. These resources will be made available upon notifying the vendor of the disaster. Payment for the resources will be in accordance with Section 7 of this Act. The Illinois Department of Public Health shall determine which resources will be required and requested.

(11.5) In coordination with the Illinois State Police, develop and implement a community outreach program to promote awareness among the State's parents and children of child abduction prevention and response.

(12) Out of funds appropriated for these purposes, award capital and non-capital grants to Illinois hospitals or health care facilities located outside of a city with a population in excess of 1,000,000 to be used for purposes that include, but are not limited to, preparing to respond to mass casualties and disasters, maintaining and improving patient safety and quality of care, and protecting the confidentiality of patient information. No single grant for a capital expenditure shall exceed $300,000. No single grant for a non-capital expenditure shall exceed $100,000. In awarding such grants, preference shall be given to hospitals that serve a significant number of Medicaid recipients, but do not qualify for disproportionate share hospital adjustment payments under the Illinois Public Aid Code. To receive such a grant, a hospital or health care facility must provide funding of at least 50% of the cost of the project for which the grant is being requested. In awarding such grants the Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall consider the recommendations of the Illinois Hospital Association.

(13) Do all other things necessary, incidental or appropriate for the implementation of this Act.

(g) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is authorized to make grants to various higher education institutions, public K-12 school districts, area vocational centers as designated by the State Board of Education, inter-district special education cooperatives, regional safe schools, and nonpublic K-12 schools for safety and security improvements. For the purpose of this subsection (g), "higher education institution" means a public university, a public community college, or an independent, not-for-profit or for-profit higher education institution located in this State. Grants made under this subsection (g) shall be paid out of moneys appropriated for that purpose from the Build Illinois Bond Fund. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall adopt rules to implement this subsection (g). These rules may specify: (i) the manner of applying for grants; (ii) project eligibility requirements; (iii) restrictions on the use of grant moneys; (iv) the manner in which the various higher education institutions must account for the use of grant moneys; and (v) any other provision that the Illinois Emergency Management Agency determines to be necessary or useful for the administration of this subsection (g).

(g-5) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is authorized to make grants to not-for-profit organizations which are exempt from federal income taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code for eligible security improvements that assist the organization in preventing, preparing for, or responding to threats, attacks, or acts of terrorism. To be eligible for a grant under the program, the Agency must determine that the organization is at a high risk of being subject to threats, attacks, or acts of terrorism based on the organization's profile, ideology, mission, or beliefs. Eligible security improvements shall include all eligible preparedness activities under the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program, including, but not limited to, physical security upgrades, security training exercises, preparedness training exercises, contracting with security personnel, and any other security upgrades deemed eligible by the Director. Eligible security improvements shall not duplicate, in part or in whole, a project included under any awarded federal grant or in a pending federal application. The Director shall establish procedures and forms by which applicants may apply for a grant and procedures for distributing grants to recipients. Any security improvements awarded shall remain at the physical property listed in the grant application, unless authorized by Agency rule or approved by the Agency in writing. The procedures shall require each applicant to do the following:

(1) identify and substantiate prior or current threats, attacks, or acts of terrorism against the not-for-profit organization;

(2) indicate the symbolic or strategic value of one or more sites that renders the site a possible target of a threat, attack, or act of terrorism;

(3) discuss potential consequences to the organization if the site is damaged, destroyed, or disrupted by a threat, attack, or act of terrorism;

(4) describe how the grant will be used to integrate organizational preparedness with broader State and local preparedness efforts, as described by the Agency in each Notice of Opportunity for Funding;

(5) submit (i) a vulnerability assessment conducted by experienced security, law enforcement, or military personnel, or conducted using an Agency-approved or federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program self-assessment tool, and (ii) a description of how the grant award will be used to address the vulnerabilities identified in the assessment; and

(6) submit any other relevant information as may be required by the Director.

The Agency is authorized to use funds appropriated for the grant program described in this subsection (g-5) to administer the program. Any Agency Notice of Opportunity for Funding, proposed or final rulemaking, guidance, training opportunity, or other resource related to the grant program must be published on the Agency's publicly available website, and any announcements related to funding shall be shared with all State legislative offices, the Governor's office, emergency services and disaster agencies mandated or required pursuant to subsections (b) through (d) of Section 10, and any other State agencies as determined by the Agency. Subject to appropriation, the grant application period shall be open for no less than 45 calendar days during the first application cycle each fiscal year, unless the Agency determines that a shorter period is necessary to avoid conflicts with the annual federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding cycle. Additional application cycles may be conducted during the same fiscal year, subject to availability of funds. Upon request, Agency staff shall provide reasonable assistance to any applicant in completing a grant application or meeting a post-award requirement.

In addition to any advance payment rules or procedures adopted by the Agency, the Agency shall adopt rules or procedures by which grantees under this subsection (g-5) may receive a working capital advance of initial start-up costs and up to 2 months of program expenses, not to exceed 25% of the total award amount, if, during the application process, the grantee demonstrates a need for funds to commence a project. The remaining funds must be paid through reimbursement after the grantee presents sufficient supporting documentation of expenditures for eligible activities.

(h) Except as provided in Section 17.5 of this Act, any moneys received by the Agency from donations or sponsorships unrelated to a disaster shall be deposited in the Emergency Planning and Training Fund and used by the Agency, subject to appropriation, to effectuate planning and training activities. Any moneys received by the Agency from donations during a disaster and intended for disaster response or recovery shall be deposited into the Disaster Response and Recovery Fund and used for disaster response and recovery pursuant to the Disaster Relief Act.

(i) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency may by rule assess and collect reasonable fees for attendance at Agency-sponsored conferences to enable the Agency to carry out the requirements of this Act. Any moneys received under this subsection shall be deposited in the Emergency Planning and Training Fund and used by the Agency, subject to appropriation, for planning and training activities.

(j) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is authorized to make grants to other State agencies, public universities, units of local government, and statewide mutual aid organizations to enhance statewide emergency preparedness and response.

(k) Subject to appropriation from the Emergency Planning and Training Fund, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security shall obtain training services and support for local emergency services and support for local emergency services and disaster agencies for training, exercises, and equipment related to carbon dioxide pipelines and sequestration, and, subject to the availability of funding, shall provide $5,000 per year to the Illinois Fire Service Institute for first responder training required under Section 4-615 of the Public Utilities Act. Amounts in the Emergency Planning and Training Fund will be used by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security for administrative costs incurred in carrying out the requirements of this subsection. To carry out the purposes of this subsection, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security may accept moneys from all authorized sources into the Emergency Planning and Training Fund, including, but not limited to, transfers from the Carbon Dioxide Sequestration Administrative Fund and the Public Utility Fund.

(l) The Agency shall do all other things necessary, incidental, or appropriate for the implementation of this Act, including the adoption of rules in accordance with the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act.

(Source: P.A. 103-418, eff. 1-1-24; 103-588, eff. 1-1-25; 103-651, eff. 7-18-24; 103-999, eff. 1-1-25; 104-417, eff. 8-15-25.)

(20 ILCS 3305/5.5 new)

Sec. 5.5. Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC).

(a) The Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) is hereby created as a position within the Agency.

(b) The SWIC shall:

(1) act as the senior advisor and central coordination point for public safety communications efforts and serves as the principal policy making authority for public safety interoperable communications statewide;

(2) plan and implement the statewide interoperability program, guided by initiatives outlined in the National Emergency Communication Plan and Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan;

(3) ascertain what means exist for rapid and efficient communications in times of disaster;

(4) serve as the central coordination point for the State's communications interoperability as well as the Single Point of Contact for the First Responder Network Authority and assist with mediation to achieve an interoperable communications ecosystem;

(5) coordinate with all emergency response leaders within State agencies, public jurisdictions, the federal government, and private entities to implement and maintain the state's strategic vision for interoperability to ensure emergency readiness;

(6) coordinate governing body activities to maximize integration and collaboration across the emergency communications landscape and serve as a member of the Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee or its successor entity and may act on behalf of the Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee;

(7) recommend regulatory changes relating to public safety communications and interoperability activities statewide;

(8) on behalf of the State, serve as the point of contact for the federal government and industry on issues concerning statewide interoperable communications;

(9) ensure federal funding for emergency communications initiatives are coordinated, align to the National Emergency Communication Plan and Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan, and are compatible with surrounding systems;

(10) represent the State in national, regional, and local efforts to plan and implement changes needed to achieve interoperability and continuity of communications for emergency responders;

(11) ensure a comprehensive approach to public safety communications and cybersecurity across all technologies; and

(12) support operational communications by regularly coordinating, planning, and communicating with relevant industry, communications providers, and other stakeholders.

(20 ILCS 3305/6) (from Ch. 127, par. 1056)

Sec. 6. Emergency Management Powers of the Governor.

(a) The Governor shall have general direction and control of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and shall be responsible for the carrying out of the provisions of this Act.

(b) In performing duties under this Act, the Governor is authorized to cooperate with the federal government and with other states in all matters pertaining to emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security.

(c) In performing duties under this Act, the Governor is further authorized:

(1) To make, amend, and rescind all lawful necessary orders, rules, and regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act within the limits of the authority conferred upon the Governor.

(2) To cause to be prepared a comprehensive plan and programs program for the emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security of this State, which plan and program shall be integrated into and coordinated with emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security plans and programs of the federal government and of other states whenever possible and which plan and program may include:

a. Mitigation of injury and damage caused by disaster.

b. Prompt and effective response to disaster.

c. Emergency relief.

d. Identification of areas particularly vulnerable to disasters.

e. Recommendations for zoning, building, and other land-use controls, safety measures for securing permanent structures and other mitigation measures designed to eliminate or reduce disasters or their impact.

f. Assistance to political subdivisions in designing emergency operations plans.

g. Authorization and procedures for the erection or other construction of temporary works designed to mitigate danger, damage or loss from flood, or other disaster.

h. Preparation and distribution to the appropriate State and political subdivision officials of a State catalog of federal, State, and private assistance programs.

i. Organization of State personnel and chains of command.

j. Coordination of federal, State, and political subdivision emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security activities.

k. Other necessary matters.

(3) In accordance with the plans and programs plan and program for the emergency management, nuclear and radiation safety, and homeland security of this State, and out of funds appropriated for these purposes, to procure and preposition supplies, medicines, materials and equipment, to institute training programs and public information programs, and to take all other preparatory steps including the partial or full mobilization of MSTs and emergency services and disaster agencies to insure the furnishing of adequately trained and equipped forces for incidents, disasters, federally declared national special security events, and other large public events.

(4) Out of funds appropriated for these purposes, to make studies and surveys of the industries, resources, and facilities in this State as may be necessary to ascertain the capabilities of the State for emergency management phases of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery and to plan for the most efficient emergency use thereof.

(5) On behalf of this State, to negotiate for and submit to the General Assembly for its approval or rejection reciprocal mutual aid agreements or compacts with other states, either on a statewide or political subdivision basis. The agreements or compacts, shall be limited to the furnishing or exchange of food, clothing, medical or other supplies, engineering and police services; emergency housing and feeding; National and State Guards while under the control of the State; health, medical, and related services; fire fighting, rescue, transportation, communication, and construction services and equipment, provided, however, that if the General Assembly be not in session and the Governor has not proclaimed the existence of a disaster under this Section, then the agreements or compacts shall instead be submitted to an Interim Committee on Emergency Management composed of 5 Senators appointed by the President of the Senate and of 5 Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House, during the month of June of each odd-numbered year to serve for a 2 year term, beginning July 1 of that year, and until their successors are appointed and qualified, or until termination of their legislative service, whichever first occurs. Vacancies shall be filled by appointment for the unexpired term in the same manner as original appointments. All appointments shall be made in writing and filed with the Secretary of State as a public record. The Committee shall have the power to approve or reject any agreements or compacts for and on behalf of the General Assembly; and, provided further, that an affirmative vote of 2/3 of the members of the Committee shall be necessary for the approval of any agreement or compact.

(Source: P.A. 104-418, eff. 1-1-26.)

(20 ILCS 3305/7) (from Ch. 127, par. 1057)

Sec. 7. Emergency Powers of the Governor. In the event of a disaster, as defined in Section 4, the Governor may, by proclamation declare that a disaster exists. Upon such proclamation, the Governor shall have and may exercise for a period not to exceed 30 days the following emergency powers; provided, however, that the lapse of the emergency powers shall not, as regards any act or acts occurring or committed within the 30-day period, deprive any person, firm, corporation, political subdivision, or body politic of any right or rights to compensation or reimbursement which he, she, it, or they may have under the provisions of this Act:

(1) To suspend the provisions of any regulatory statute prescribing procedures for conduct of State business, or the orders, rules and regulations of any State agency, if strict compliance with the provisions of any statute, order, rule, or regulation would in any way prevent, hinder or delay necessary action, including emergency purchases, by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, in coping with the disaster.

(2) To utilize all available resources of the State government as reasonably necessary to cope with the disaster and of each political subdivision of the State.

(3) To transfer the direction, personnel or functions of State departments and agencies or units thereof for the purpose of performing or facilitating disaster response and recovery programs.

(4) On behalf of this State to take possession of, and to acquire full title or a lesser specified interest in, any personal property as may be necessary to accomplish the objectives set forth in Section 2 of this Act, including: airplanes, automobiles, trucks, trailers, buses, and other vehicles; coal, oils, gasoline, and other fuels and means of propulsion; explosives, materials, equipment, and supplies; animals and livestock; feed and seed; food and provisions for humans and animals; clothing and bedding; and medicines and medical and surgical supplies; and to take possession of and for a limited period occupy and use any real estate necessary to accomplish those objectives; but only upon the undertaking by the State to pay just compensation therefor as in this Act provided, and then only under the following provisions:

a. The Governor, or the person or persons as the Governor may authorize so to do, may forthwith take possession of property for and on behalf of the State; provided, however, that the Governor or persons shall simultaneously with the taking, deliver to the owner or his or her agent, if the identity of the owner or agency is known or readily ascertainable, a signed statement in writing, that shall include the name and address of the owner, the date and place of the taking, description of the property sufficient to identify it, a statement of interest in the property that is being so taken, and, if possible, a statement in writing, signed by the owner, setting forth the sum that he or she is willing to accept as just compensation for the property or use. Whether or not the owner or agent is known or readily ascertainable, a true copy of the statement shall promptly be filed by the Governor or the person with the Director, who shall keep the docket of the statements. In cases where the sum that the owner is willing to accept as just compensation is less than $1,000, copies of the statements shall also be filed by the Director with, and shall be passed upon by an Emergency Management Claims Commission, consisting of 3 disinterested citizens who shall be appointed by the Governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, within 20 days after the Governor's declaration of a disaster, and if the sum fixed by them as just compensation be less than $1,000 and is accepted in writing by the owner, then the State Treasurer out of funds appropriated for these purposes, shall, upon certification thereof by the Emergency Management Claims Commission, cause the sum so certified forthwith to be paid to the owner. The Emergency Management Claims Commission is hereby given the power to issue appropriate subpoenas and to administer oaths to witnesses and shall keep appropriate minutes and other records of its actions upon and the disposition made of all claims.

b. When the compensation to be paid for the taking or use of property or interest therein is not or cannot be determined and paid under item a of this paragraph (4), a petition in the name of The People of the State of Illinois shall be promptly filed by the Director, which filing may be enforced by mandamus, in the circuit court of the county where the property or any part thereof was located when initially taken or used under the provisions of this Act praying that the amount of compensation to be paid to the person or persons interested therein be fixed and determined. The petition shall include a description of the property that has been taken, shall state the physical condition of the property when taken, shall name as defendants all interested parties, shall set forth the sum of money estimated to be just compensation for the property or interest therein taken or used, and shall be signed by the Director. The litigation shall be handled by the Attorney General for and on behalf of the State.

c. Just compensation for the taking or use of property or interest therein shall be promptly ascertained in proceedings and established by judgment against the State, that shall include, as part of the just compensation so awarded, interest at the rate of 6% per annum on the fair market value of the property or interest therein from the date of the taking or use to the date of the judgment; and the court may order the payment of delinquent taxes and special assessments out of the amount so awarded as just compensation and may make any other orders with respect to encumbrances, rents, insurance, and other charges, if any, as shall be just and equitable.

(5) When required by the exigencies of the disaster, to sell, lend, rent, give, or distribute all or any part of property so or otherwise acquired to the inhabitants of this State, or to political subdivisions of this State, or, under the interstate mutual aid agreements or compacts as are entered into under the provisions of subparagraph (5) of paragraph (c) of Section 6 to other states, and to account for and transmit to the State Treasurer all funds, if any, received therefor.

(6) To recommend the evacuation of all or part of the population from any stricken or threatened area within the State if the Governor deems this action necessary.

(7) To prescribe routes, modes of transportation, and destinations in connection with evacuation.

(8) To control ingress and egress to and from a disaster area, the movement of persons within the area, and the occupancy of premises therein.

(9) To suspend or limit the sale, dispensing, or transportation of alcoholic beverages, firearms, explosives, and combustibles.

(10) To make provision for the availability and use of temporary emergency housing.

(11) A proclamation of a disaster shall activate the State Emergency Operations Plan, and political subdivision emergency operations plans applicable to the political subdivision or area in question and be authority for the deployment and use of any forces that the plan or plans apply and for use or distribution of any supplies, equipment, and materials and facilities assembled, stockpiled or arranged to be made available under this Act or any other provision of law relating to disasters.

(12) Control, restrict, and regulate by rationing, freezing, use of quotas, prohibitions on shipments, price fixing, allocation or other means, the use, sale or distribution of food, feed, fuel, clothing and other commodities, materials, goods, or services; and perform and exercise any other functions, powers, and duties as may be necessary to promote and secure the safety and protection of the civilian population.

(13) During the continuance of any disaster the Governor is commander-in-chief of the organized and unorganized militia and of all other forces available for emergency duty. To the greatest extent practicable, the Governor shall delegate or assign authority to the Director to manage, coordinate, and direct all resources by orders issued at the time of the disaster.

(14) Prohibit increases in the prices of goods and services during a disaster.

(Source: P.A. 102-485, eff. 8-20-21.)

(20 ILCS 3305/8) (from Ch. 127, par. 1058)

Sec. 8. Mobile support teams; mutual aid.

(a) The Governor or Director, on behalf of the Governor, may enter into agreements with local governments, the federal government, tribal governments, and any public or private agency or entity in achieving any purpose of this Act and in implementing emergency management programs for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

(b) The Governor or Director may activate mobile support teams (MSTs) to aid and reinforce the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security, and emergency services and disaster agencies in this State or out-of-state pursuant to the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, as ratified in the Emergency Management Assistance Compact Act, for incidents, disasters, federally declared national special security events, and other large public events.

(c) Each mobile support team shall have a leader or leadership group, who will be responsible for the organization, administration, training, and general operation of the mobile support team.

(d) While activated on behalf of the State, the MST shall report to the Director or designee as the Director retains operational control of MSTs even if they have been tasked to support emergency services and disaster agencies.

(e) Personnel of an MST while activated by the Governor or Director or while engaged in State-approved or State-sponsored training or exercises, whether within or without the State, shall:

(1) If they are paid employees of the State, have the powers, duties, rights, privileges and immunities and receive the compensation incidental to their employment.

(2) If they are paid employees of a political subdivision or body politic of this State, and whether serving within or without that political subdivision or body politic, have the powers, duties, rights, privileges and immunities, and receive the compensation incidental to their employment.

(3) If they are not employees of the State, political subdivision or body politic, or being such employees, are not normally paid for their services, be entitled to at least one dollar per year compensation from the State.

(f) All personnel of MSTs may, while activated by the Governor or Director, be reimbursed by this State for all actual and necessary travel and subsistence expenses related to their activation.

(g) Personnel of a mobile support team who suffer disease, injury or death, while activated by the Governor or Director, shall for the purposes of benefits under the Workers' Compensation Act or Workers' Occupational Diseases Act only, be deemed to be employees of this State. If the person diseased, injured or killed is an employee described in item (3) of subsection (e), the computation of benefits payable under either of those Acts shall be based on income commensurate with comparable State employees doing the same type of work or income from the person's regular employment, whichever is greater.

(h) In lieu of subsection (f), the State may, by agreement, reimburse each political subdivision or body politic from the Disaster Response and Recovery Fund, or from other funding determined by the State, for the compensation paid and the actual and necessary travel and subsistence expenses of paid employees of the political subdivision or body politic while serving, outside of its geographical boundaries on behalf of the State, as members of an MST, and for all payments made for death, disease or injury of those paid employees arising out of and incurred in the course of that duty, and for all losses of or damage to supplies and equipment of the political subdivision or body politic resulting from the operations.

(i) Whenever activated MSTs or units of another state operating under orders of the Governor of their home state, render aid to this State, all questions relating to reimbursement by this State in regard to the assistance rendered shall be determined by the mutual aid agreements, MST agreements, or interstate compacts described in subparagraph (5) of paragraph (c) of Section 6 as are existing at the time of the assistance rendered, pursuant to the Emergency Management Assistance Compact as ratified in the Emergency Management Assistance Compact Act, as are entered into thereafter.

(j) No personnel of MSTs of this State may be ordered by the Governor or Director to operate in any other state unless a request for the same has been made by the Governor or duly authorized representative of the other state pursuant to the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, as ratified in the Emergency Management Assistance Compact Act, or a successor law.

(k) All expenses and compensation reimbursed under this Section may be provided from the Disaster Response and Recovery Fund or other funding determined by the State. The mutual aid agreement shall specify the manner and method in which compensation shall be paid.

(Source: P.A. 104-418, eff. 1-1-26.)

(20 ILCS 3305/10) (from Ch. 127, par. 1060)

Sec. 10. Emergency Services and Disaster Agencies.

(a) Each political subdivision within this State shall be within the jurisdiction of and served by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and by an emergency services and disaster agency responsible for emergency management programs. A township, if the township is in a county having a population of more than 2,000,000, must have approval of the county coordinator before establishment of a township emergency services and disaster agency.

(b) Unless multiple county emergency services and disaster agency consolidation is authorized by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency with the consent of the respective counties, each county shall maintain an emergency services and disaster agency that has jurisdiction over and serves the entire county, except as otherwise provided under this Act and except that in any county with a population of over 3,000,000 containing a municipality with a population of over 500,000 the jurisdiction of the county agency shall not extend to the municipality when the municipality has established its own agency.

(c) Each municipality with a population of over 500,000 shall maintain an emergency services and disaster agency which has jurisdiction over and serves the entire municipality. A municipality with a population less than 500,000 may establish, by ordinance, an agency or department responsible for emergency management within the municipality's corporate limits.

(d) The Governor shall determine which municipal corporations, other than those specified in paragraph (c) of this Section, need emergency services and disaster agencies of their own and require that they be established and maintained. The Governor shall make these determinations on the basis of the municipality's disaster vulnerability and capability of response related to population size and concentration. The emergency services and disaster agency of a county or township, shall not have a jurisdiction within a political subdivision having its own emergency services and disaster agency, but shall cooperate with the emergency services and disaster agency of a city, village or incorporated town within their borders. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall publish and furnish a current list to the municipalities required to have an emergency services and disaster agency under this subsection.

(e) Each municipality that is not required to and does not have an emergency services and disaster agency shall have a liaison officer designated to facilitate the cooperation and protection of that municipal corporation with the county emergency services and disaster agency in which it is located in the work of disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

(f) The principal executive officer or his or her designee of each political subdivision in the State shall annually notify the Illinois Emergency Management Agency of the manner in which the political subdivision is providing or securing emergency management, identify the executive head of the agency or the department from which the service is obtained, or the liaison officer in accordance with subsection (e) paragraph (d) of this Section and furnish additional information relating thereto as the Illinois Emergency Management Agency requires.

(g) Each emergency services and disaster agency shall prepare an emergency operations plan for its geographic boundaries that complies with planning, review, and approval standards promulgated by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall determine which jurisdictions will be required to include earthquake preparedness in their local emergency operations plans.

(h) The emergency services and disaster agency shall prepare and distribute to all appropriate officials in written form a clear and complete statement of the emergency responsibilities of all local departments and officials and of the disaster chain of command.

(i) Each emergency services and disaster agency shall have a Coordinator who shall be appointed by the principal executive officer of the political subdivision in the same manner as are the heads of regular governmental departments. If the political subdivision is a county and the principal executive officer appoints the sheriff as the Coordinator, the sheriff may, in addition to his or her regular compensation, receive compensation at the same level as provided in Article 3 of the Counties Code Section 3 of "An Act in relation to the regulation of motor vehicle traffic and the promotion of safety on public highways in counties", approved August 9, 1951, as amended. The Coordinator shall have direct responsibility for the organization, administration, training, and operation of the emergency services and disaster agency, subject to the direction and control of that principal executive officer. Each emergency services and disaster agency shall coordinate and may perform emergency management functions within the territorial limits of the political subdivision within which it is organized as are prescribed in and by the State Emergency Operations Plan, and programs, orders, rules and regulations as may be promulgated by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and by local ordinance and, in addition, shall conduct such functions outside of those territorial limits as may be required under mutual aid agreements and compacts as are entered into under subparagraph (5) of paragraph (c) of Section 6.

(j) In carrying out the provisions of this Act, each political subdivision may enter into contracts and incur obligations necessary to place it in a position effectively to combat the disasters as are described in Section 4, to protect the health and safety of persons, to protect property, and to provide emergency assistance to victims of those disasters. If a disaster occurs, each political subdivision may exercise the powers vested under this Section in the light of the exigencies of the disaster and, excepting mandatory constitutional requirements, without regard to the procedures and formalities normally prescribed by law pertaining to the performance of public work, entering into contracts, the incurring of obligations, the employment of temporary workers, the rental of equipment, the purchase of supplies and materials, and the appropriation, expenditure, and disposition of public funds and property.

(k) Volunteers who, while engaged in a disaster, an exercise, training related to the emergency operations plan of the political subdivision, or a search-and-rescue team response to an occurrence or threat of injury or loss of life that is beyond local response capabilities, suffer disease, injury or death, shall, for the purposes of benefits under the Workers' Compensation Act or Workers' Occupational Diseases Act only, be deemed to be employees of the State, if: (1) the claimant is a duly qualified and enrolled (sworn in) as a volunteer of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency or an emergency services and disaster agency accredited by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, and (2) if: (i) the claimant was participating in a disaster as defined in Section 4 of this Act, (ii) the exercise or training participated in was specifically and expressly approved by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency prior to the exercise or training, or (iii) the search-and-rescue team response was to an occurrence or threat of injury or loss of life that was beyond local response capabilities and was specifically and expressly approved by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency prior to the search-and-rescue team response. The computation of benefits payable under either of those Acts shall be based on the income commensurate with comparable State employees doing the same type work or income from the person's regular employment, whichever is greater.

Volunteers who are working under the direction of an emergency services and disaster agency accredited by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, pursuant to a plan approved by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (i) during a disaster declared by the Governor under Section 7 of this Act, or (ii) in circumstances otherwise expressly approved by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, shall be deemed exclusively employees of the State for purposes of Section 8(d) of the Court of Claims Act, provided that the Illinois Emergency Management Agency may, in coordination with the emergency services and disaster agency, audit implementation for compliance with the plan.

(l) If any person who is entitled to receive benefits through the application of this Section receives, in connection with the disease, injury or death giving rise to such entitlement, benefits under an Act of Congress or federal program, benefits payable under this Section shall be reduced to the extent of the benefits received under that other Act or program.

(m) (1) Prior to conducting an exercise, the principal executive officer of a political subdivision or his or her designee shall provide area media with written notification of the exercise. The notification shall indicate that information relating to the exercise shall not be released to the public until the commencement of the exercise. The notification shall also contain a request that the notice be so posted to ensure that all relevant media personnel are advised of the exercise before it begins.

(2) During the conduct of an exercise, all messages, two-way radio communications, briefings, status reports, news releases, and other oral or written communications shall begin and end with the following statement: "This is an exercise message".

(Source: P.A. 94-733, eff. 4-27-06.)

(20 ILCS 3305/12) (from Ch. 127, par. 1062)

Sec. 12. Testing of Disaster Warning Devices. The testing of disaster warning devices including outdoor warning sirens shall be held only on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 o'clock in the morning or during exercises that are specifically and expressly approved in advance by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.

(Source: P.A. 92-73, eff. 1-1-02.)

(20 ILCS 3305/14) (from Ch. 127, par. 1064)

Sec. 14. Communications. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall ascertain what means exist for rapid and efficient communications in times of disaster. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall consider the desirability of supplementing these communications resources or of integrating them into a comprehensive State or State-Federal telecommunications or other communications system or network. In studying the character and feasibility of any system or its several parts, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall evaluate the possibility of multipurpose use thereof for general State and political subdivision purposes. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency may promulgate rules to establish policies and procedures relating to telecommunications and the continuation of rapid and efficient communications in times of disaster to the extent authorized by any provision of this Act or other laws and regulations. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall make recommendations to the Governor as appropriate.

(Source: P.A. 86-755; 87-168.)

(20 ILCS 3305/18) (from Ch. 127, par. 1068)

Sec. 18. Orders, Rules and Regulations.

(a) The Governor shall file a copy of every rule, regulation or order, and any amendment thereof made by the Governor under the provisions of this Act in the office of the Secretary of State. Upon No rule, regulation or order, or any amendment thereof shall be effective until 10 days after the filing, provided, however, that upon the declaration of a disaster by the Governor as is described in Section 7 the provision relating to the effective date of any rule, regulation, order or amendment issued under this Act and during the state of disaster is abrogated, and the rule, regulation, order or amendment shall become effective immediately upon being filed with the Secretary of State accompanied by a certificate stating the reason as required by the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act.

(b) Every emergency services and disaster agency established pursuant to this Act and the coordinators thereof shall execute and enforce the orders, rules and regulations as may be made by the Governor under authority of this Act. Each emergency services and disaster agency shall have available for inspection at its office all orders, rules and regulations made by the Governor, or under the Governor's authority. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall publish furnish on the Agency's Department's website the orders, rules and regulations to each such emergency services and disaster agency. Upon the written request of an emergency services or disaster agency, copies thereof shall be mailed to the emergency services or disaster agency.

(Source: P.A. 98-44, eff. 6-28-13.)

(20 ILCS 3305/20) (from Ch. 127, par. 1070)

Sec. 20. Oath.

(a) Each person, whether compensated or noncompensated, who is appointed to serve in any capacity in, or on behalf of, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) or an emergency services and disaster agency, shall, before entering upon duties, take an oath in writing.

(b) The oath shall be administered before the Director of IEMA-OHS (or a designee authorized in writing by the Director), the coordinator of the respective emergency services and disaster agency, or persons authorized to administer oaths in this State pursuant to the Oaths an Affirmations Act.

The oath may be administered through live video technology or other electronic means; however, the signed oath shall be filed with IEMA-OHS or with the emergency services and disaster agency with which the person shall serve and which oath shall be substantially as follows:

"I, _______________, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend and bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and the territory, institutions and facilities thereof, both public and private, against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties upon which I am about to enter. And I do further swear (or affirm) that I do not advocate, nor am I, nor have I been a member of any political party or organization that advocates the overthrow of the government of the United States or of this State by force or violence; and that during such time as I am affiliated with the (name of emergency preparedness organization), I will not advocate nor become a member or an affiliate of any organization, group, or combination of persons that advocates the overthrow of the government of the United States or of this State by force or violence."

(Source: P.A. 104-418, eff. 1-1-26.)

(20 ILCS 3305/23)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2032)

Sec. 23. Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee.

(a) In this Section, "Advisory Committee" means the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee.

(b) The Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee is created.

(c) The Advisory Committee shall:

(1) Coordinate meetings occurring, at a minimum, 3 times each year, in addition to emergency meetings called by the chairperson of the Advisory Committee.

(2) Research and provide recommendations for identifying and effectively responding to the needs of persons with access and functional needs before, during, and after a disaster using an intersectional lens for equity.

(3) Provide recommendations to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency regarding how to ensure that persons with a disability are included in disaster strategies and emergency management plans, including updates and implementation of disaster strategies and emergency management plans.

(4) Review and provide recommendations for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, and all relevant State agencies that are involved in drafting and implementing the Illinois Emergency Operation Plan, to integrate access and functional needs into State and local emergency operations plans.

(d) The Advisory Committee shall be composed of the Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency or his or her designee, the Attorney General or his or her designee, the Secretary of Human Services or his or her designee, the Director of Aging or his or her designee, and the Director of Public Health or his or her designee, together with the following members appointed by the Governor on or before January 1, 2022:

(1) Two members, either from a municipal or county-level emergency agency or a local emergency management coordinator.

(2) Nine members from the community of persons with a disability who represent persons with different types of disabilities, including, but not limited to, individuals with mobility and physical disabilities, hearing and visual disabilities, deafness or who are hard of hearing, blindness or who have low vision, mental health disabilities, and intellectual or developmental disabilities. Members appointed under this paragraph shall reflect a diversity of age, gender, race, and ethnic background.

(3) Four members who represent first responders from different geographical regions around the State.

(e) Of those members appointed by the Governor, the initial appointments of 6 members shall be for terms of 2 years and the initial appointments of 5 members shall be for terms of 4 years. Thereafter, members shall be appointed for terms of 4 years. A member shall serve until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. If a vacancy occurs in the Advisory Committee membership, the vacancy shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(f) After all the members are appointed, and annually thereafter, they shall elect a chairperson from among the members appointed under paragraph (2) of subsection (d).

(g) (Blank). The initial meeting of the Advisory Committee shall be convened by the Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency no later than February 1, 2022.

(h) Advisory Committee members shall serve without compensation.

(i) The Illinois Emergency Management Agency shall provide administrative support to the Advisory Committee.

(j) The Advisory Committee shall prepare and deliver a report to the General Assembly, the Governor's Office, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency by July 1, 2022, and annually thereafter. The report shall include the following:

(1) Identification of core emergency management services that need to be updated or changed to ensure the needs of persons with a disability are met, and shall include disaster strategies in State and local emergency plans.

(2) Any proposed changes in State policies, laws, rules, or regulations necessary to fulfill the purposes of this Act.

(3) Recommendations on improving the accessibility and effectiveness of disaster and emergency communication.

(4) Recommendations on comprehensive training for first responders and other frontline workers when working with persons with a disability during emergency situations or disasters, as defined in Section 4 of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act.

(5) Any additional recommendations regarding emergency management and persons with a disability that the Advisory Committee deems necessary.

(k) The annual report prepared and delivered under subsection (j) shall be annually considered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency when developing new State and local emergency plans or updating existing State and local emergency plans.

(l) The Advisory Committee is dissolved and this Section is repealed on January 1, 2032.

(Source: P.A. 102-361, eff. 8-13-21; 102-671, eff. 11-30-21; 103-154, eff. 6-30-23.)

Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect upon becoming law.