Bill > SB2135

This bill amends the Illinois Police Training Act and the School Code to expand opportunities for retired law enforcement officers to serve as school resource officers (SROs). Specifically, the bill allows the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board to offer the SRO training course to qualified retired law enforcement officers, as defined by the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004. Starting January 1, 2026, schools and school districts will be permitted to employ these retired officers as SROs, provided they obtain the required training certificate or waiver. The bill also explicitly states that school resource officers may carry firearms while performing their duties at a school or in a school district, regardless of other existing laws. The goal appears to be to provide schools with additional staffing options for security and to create a pathway for experienced retired law enforcement professionals to continue serving their communities in a school setting. The bill maintains existing requirements for training and certification, ensuring that SROs have appropriate preparation for working in educational environments.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2135&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104