FIRE MARSHAL-TRACK DEATHS

The bill requires all fire departments in Illinois to report the deaths of firefighters to the Office of the State Fire Marshal. It outlines the specific information that needs to be included in these reports. Additionally, the Office will publish an annual report on these incidents for public access.

IL SB2709 is a senate bill in the Illinois 104th General Assembly, sponsored by Cristina Castro (D), currently “Passed” since July 24, 2026.

We track 10,846 Illinois bills this session, 69 of them sponsored by Cristina Castro.

The key recorded vote (House, May 21, 2026) ended 110–0 and passed.

Supporters of the bill argue that it enhances accountability and transparency regarding firefighter safety and fatalities. By requiring reports and making them public, it honors the sacrifices made by firefighters and promotes awareness of the risks they face on the job.

Critics may contend that the bill adds unnecessary bureaucracy and reporting requirements for fire departments, which could divert resources and attention from their primary mission of fire protection. They might also argue that existing measures are sufficient to track firefighter fatalities without the need for new legislation.

Source: LegiScan roll call vote data.