The Firefighter Training Leave of Absence Act (PA103-0220) provides paid leave for certain training to permanent, full-time employees who have been employed by the University for a period of 6 months or more and who are a member of any fire department or fire protection district recognized by the State Fire Marshal.
Paid leave shall be granted 1) on one occasion, for up to 200 hours, to participate in training necessary to obtain Basic Operations Firefighter certification from the State Fire Marshal while attending a State Fire Marshal-approved fire academy; and 2) for special or advanced training, not to exceed 80 hours per calendar year, after obtaining Basic Operations Firefighter certification from the State Fire Marshal for courses that will lead to additional certification by the State Fire Marshal.
The maximum leaves of absence for firefighter training leave for any calendar year may not exceed 200 hours.
Employees taking this leave will continue to accrue seniority and to receive their regular University benefits and compensation, minus the amount of their compensation for basic, special, or advanced training.
Information about processes and procedures will be provided once available from the State of Illinois. In the meantime, please contact your campus or system HR office with questions.