State Representative Patrick Sheehan R-Homer Glen-37th District applauds the signing of Senate Bill 1446 into law, a bipartisan measure he co-sponsored to ensure the State of Illinois will begin tracking the manner of death for all firefighters, including suicide and various types of cancer.
Under the new law, the Office of the State Fire Marshal will be required to begin collecting and recording this information no later than six months after the law takes effect on January 1, 2026.
“As a police officer, I know firsthand the sacrifices first responders make to protect our communities,” said Rep. Sheehan. “By accurately tracking firefighter mortality, we can better understand the risks they face and work toward policies and resources that protect their health and save lives.”
The data collected will include on-duty incidents, job-related illnesses, and long-term health conditions such as occupational cancers, which continue to be a leading cause of firefighter deaths nationwide. Suicide prevention will also be a key focus, as public safety personnel face significantly higher rates of mental health challenges compared to the general population.
Senate Bill 1446 passed both chambers of the General Assembly with unanimous support and was signed into law by the Governor earlier this month.
