Glowiak Hilton backs SB2645 to create fire station grant program

Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-23rd) supported the passage of SB2645 during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, by voting Yes for the proposal that creates a grant program for rehabilitating and constructing fire stations, as reported by the Illinois Senate. The Senate approved the bill unanimously, 57-0.

The official bill summary defines the measure in this way: "FIRE STATION REHABILITATION."

This summary draws from the bill text and incorporates interpretation to explain its aspects more clearly.

Essentially, SB2645 amends the State Fire Marshal Act to launch a Fire Station Rehabilitation and Construction Grant Program. Through this program, grants will be awarded to eligible local government entities and nonprofit fire departments with federal tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The funding will support the repair or new construction of fire stations. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is designated to oversee and administer the program and has authority to establish necessary rules for its implementation. The bill does not specify an effective date.

Official record for SB2645 notes the action: 'House Floor Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs.'

Hilton is an Illinois Institute of Technology graduate, earning a BA in 1983.

Hilton was elected as a Democrat in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 23rd Senate District, succeeding Diane Pappas.

Legislation in Illinois progresses through a multi-step legislative process including initial introduction, committee consideration, floor debate, and votes in both the House and Senate, culminating with the governor's review for approval or possible veto. The biennial General Assembly introduces thousands of bills each session, but only a portion are enacted into law.