SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure through the Senate that would allow volunteer fire departments to apply for and receive state grants through the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal.

“This would expand grant opportunities so volunteer fire departments and fire protection districts across Illinois can access the funding they need to repair, upgrade or build their facilities,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “In communities like St. Clair County, where many departments are volunteer-based and currently ineligible, this measure would help ensure they have the resources to protect residents safely and effectively.”

Senate Bill 2645 would allow the OSFM to create and award new rehabilitation and construction grants for volunteer fire departments and fire protection districts across Illinois. Currently, OSFM operates the Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program, which helps repair, upgrade or construct new fire stations by a unit of local government.

However, of the 40 fire departments and fire protection districts in St. Clair County, majority are volunteer departments and do not qualify for the program. Belt’s bill seeks to change this by empowering volunteer departments with new grant opportunities, potentially addressing their infrastructure and equipment needs.

Senate Bill 2645 passed the Senate on Thursday.