EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DAY

104th Regular Session Introduced by John Cabello and 2 co-sponsors

Illinois designates April 16, 2026 as Emergency Management Day to recognize and raise awareness of emergency management professionals, agencies, and mutual aid networks.

Rule 19(b) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Summary of HR0805 (104th General Assembly, Illinois)

Purpose and intent

Declares April 16, 2026 as Emergency Management Day in Illinois.

Aims to recognize and honor the work of emergency management agencies, mutual aid networks, and the professionals and volunteers who support disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

Seeks to raise statewide awareness of emergency management activities and the essential role these entities play in protecting Illinois communities.

Key provisions and changes

Official designation: April 16, 2026 is proclaimed Emergency Management Day by the Illinois House of Representatives.

Observance activities: Encourages members and staff of the General Assembly to participate in and visit an exhibition of specialty emergency management equipment and personnel.

Exhibition details: Scheduled for April 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the intersection of South 2nd Street and East Capitol Avenue in Springfield.
Purpose of exhibition: Provide an opportunity to observe equipment and engage with personnel responsible for its operation.

Targeted entities acknowledged:

Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS)
Local Emergency Services and Disaster Agencies (ESDAs)
Mutual aid networks and partner organizations (e.g., IPWMAN, MABAS, ILEAS)
Illinois Emergency Services Management Association (IESMA)

Governmental and interagency collaboration: Emphasizes coordination among IEMA-OHS, ESDAs, mutual aid networks, and regional partners to sustain an all-hazards approach to emergency management.

Who would be affected

Legislators, legislative staff, and state officials involved in planning and hosting the Emergency Management Day event.

Emergency management professionals, volunteers, and organizations receiving formal recognition and visibility.

The public, particularly those interested in disaster preparedness and the operations of mutual aid networks.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Proclamation date: The designation and observance are set for April 16, 2026.

Event planning and participation: Encourages participation by General Assembly members and staff; no mandatory actions beyond attendance and engagement with emergency personnel and equipment during the exhibition.

No funding or statutory changes: The resolution text (as provided) does not include appropriations, mandates, or changes to statutory authorities. It serves as a formal recognition and educational outreach initiative.

Potential impact

Enhanced awareness of Illinois’ emergency management infrastructure and mutual aid networks among lawmakers and the public.

Increased visibility for frontline emergency management professionals and volunteers.

Strengthened interagency relationships and public appreciation for preparedness activities, potentially supporting future collaboration and funding discussions.

Note: This summary focuses on the substantive content of the bill as a House Resolution recognizing Emergency Management Day, rather than establishing new laws or funding mechanisms.