-
- Published: Friday, August 17, 2018 12:14 PM
SPRINGFIELD- Retiring Illinois State Police Officers and Illinois State Fire Marshal Investigators could soon have the option of purchasing their service weapon and badge under legislation sponsored by Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago).
“As an officer, you carry your badge and gun every day,” Munoz said. “They are symbols of a career in law enforcement, and retiring officers have earned the opportunity to keep them as an honor to their commitment and service.”
The Department of State Police, the Director of the Secretary of State Department of Police and the Office of the State Fire Marshal will have the responsibility of establishing the program allowing retiring officers to purchase their service weapon and badge.
According to the Fraternal Order of Police, the Illinois State Police established a similar practice in 2016, which resulted in 82% of retirees buying back their service revolvers in 2017. Senate Bill 2640 would codify that program and add State Police Officers and Department of Natural Resource Officers to the list of qualifying retirees.
Officers who request to purchase their service weapon must possess a valid FOID Card upon retirement and pay the department for the pistol.
Only officers are granted an honorable retirement and are in good standing will be permitted to participate in the program.
The law is now in effect.