Illinois GOP Bill Aims to Expand Line of Duty Death Benefits to EMS Personnel

The proposed legislation would add state-licensed emergency medical workers to the list of those compensated for being killed on the job.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A GOP-led bill in the Illinois House of Representatives, HB 5599, would expand the state's Line of Duty Compensation Act to include emergency medical service (EMS) personnel. Currently, the act only covers a select few roles such as law enforcement, firefighters, and paramedics. The new bill would add positions like Emergency Medical Responder, EMT, and Advanced EMT to the list of those eligible for death benefits if killed while on duty.

Why it matters

This proposed change recognizes the critical role EMS workers play in public safety and the risks they face, especially in light of increasing rates of violence against first responders. Expanding the death benefits could help attract and retain EMS personnel in Illinois.

The details

HB 5599 was filed by Republican Rep. Wayne Rosenthal, who represents Illinois' 108th House District. The bill would amend the state's existing Line of Duty Compensation Act to add a range of EMS roles, from Emergency Medical Responders to Pre-Hospital Registered Nurses. Under current law, only a limited set of first responders like police, firefighters, and paramedics are eligible for the death benefits.

  • HB 5599 received its first reading in the Illinois House on Friday, February 17, 2026.
  • The bill has been referred to the House Rules Committee for further consideration.

The players

Wayne Rosenthal

Republican member of the Illinois House of Representatives, serving the 108th District.

Illinois Line of Duty Compensation Act

The state law that provides death benefits to certain public safety personnel killed in the line of duty.

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What’s next

The bill must now be considered by the House Rules Committee before potentially advancing to a full House vote.

The takeaway

Expanding death benefits to EMS personnel is an important step in supporting Illinois' first responder community and ensuring their families are cared for if tragedy strikes. The proposed legislation highlights the evolving nature of public safety roles and the need to update policies accordingly.