SB 1553

Abstract

Amends the Downstate Firefighters Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that the 3 physicians' opinions required for a determination of disability need not agree as to the existence of any disability or the nature and extent of a disability. Provides that no physical or mental disability that constitutes the basis of an application for benefits may be used by any municipality or fire protection district employing firefighters, emergency medical technicians, or paramedics as cause for discharge. Provides that the Board of Trustees' finding that a particular applicant is not or is no longer disabled shall constitute a conclusive presumption binding on the employing unit that the firefighter, emergency medical technician, or paramedic is able to perform his or her job and the employing entity may not use any conflicting medical opinion to provide the basis of denying return to employment by the firefighter, emergency medical technician, or paramedic. Requires the firefighter to report to the marshall or chief of the fire department, who shall order reinstatement into active service at the same rank or grade held on the date the firefighter had occupied before applying for disability pension. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.