SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTWO/WAWV)— The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) announced Wednesday a change in standards for military members transitioning into law enforcement roles.
The ILETSB approved military reciprocity, joining 18 other states that have done so already. The new policy means military members are now eligible for certification reciprocity instead of having to complete the full 640-hour Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Military service members used to be ineligible for certification reciprocity despite training by the Department of Defense and operational experience. Now, eligible veterans can request a certification waiver like applicants from other states or federal agencies can.
“Today’s announcement honors the commitment of our service members by opening a clear path into law enforcement careers across Illinois,” said Keith Calloway, Executive Director of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. “This is about honoring their experience while meeting our state’s workforce needs in a responsible and impactful way.”
The policy change comes after months of collaboration between ILETSB, military leaders, and state partners, stating that they want to ease the transition to civilian service roles and strengthen recruitment pipelines for law enforcement agencies across the state.
“Our Illinois Army National Guard Military Police and Air National Guard Security Forces personnel spend a lot of time training and learning law enforcement techniques in our ranks. This program expands the number of military occupational specialties that can translate into civilian careers,” said Major General Rodney Boyd, the Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard. “Illinois National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are great employees who perform well under pressure, possess great integrity, and are professional in everything they do.”
To be granted a waiver request, veterans must:
- Successfully complete the Illinois Law for Police Course, which includes instruction on Illinois-specific law, policies, and procedures
- A two-day in-person Sexual Assault Investigation course
- A 40-hour Mandatory Firearms Course with Use of Force instruction and training
- Passing the Illinois Certification Exam
- Any additional training deemed necessary by ILETSB
Additional information and application instructions can be found at this link.
