SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt championed a new law to help recruit qualified law enforcement and county corrections officers to work in Illinois

“It only makes sense to simplify the process of training requirements for qualified and experienced officers who are coming to serve our state,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We are streamlining the application process for these officers so they can begin their new positions in Illinois in a timely manner.”

The new law will require the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board to create an employment waiver process for a person previously employed and qualified as a law enforcement or county corrections officer under federal law or the laws of any other state.

Previously, all law enforcement and county corrections officers in Illinois were required to meet specific training standards set by LETSB before they could be employed in the state.

“The last thing we want is to deter people away from law enforcement employment opportunities in Illinois,” said Belt. “This new law will save the state both time and resources, while ensuring we recruit experienced and qualified officers.”

Senate Bill 1754 was signed Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.