Illinois bill moves forward that would lower firefighter minimum age to 18

By MES Dispatch staff

The Briefing
• Illinois legislators advanced a bill that would lower the minimum age to become a firefighter from 21 to 18.
• Supporters said the change could help departments struggling with staffing shortages by expanding the recruitment pool.
• Opponents raised concerns about training, maturity and readiness of younger recruits.
• The bill must still pass additional legislative steps before becoming law.

SPRINGFIELD, IL — A measure that would lower the minimum age to become a firefighter in Illinois from 21 to 18 advanced in the state legislature this week, officials said.

Sponsors of the bill said the change is intended to help fire departments address ongoing staffing shortages by broadening the pool of eligible recruits and creating earlier entry into training and certification pathways.

Supporters also noted that younger firefighters could begin accruing experience sooner and contribute to long-term workforce stability if adequate training and mentorship are provided.

During committee hearings, opponents raised concerns about whether 18-year-olds have the maturity and physical readiness necessary for the responsibilities and stresses of firefighting, urging careful consideration of training and safety standards.

The bill must still clear additional committee votes and receive final approval from both legislative chambers before it can be signed by the governor and become law.