New Illinois law allows EMS workers to be suspended statewide if charged with a crime

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — State Senator Doris Turner is hoping a new Illinois law holds EMS workers more accountable.

The law allows the Illinois Department of Public Health director to suspend an EMS worker statewide if they get charged with a crime while at work and if the director thinks the worker will pose the possibility of harm to the public if they continue to work.

“We have to hold bad actors accountable,” Turner (D-Springfield) said. “People need to know that those who respond to an emergency will prioritize their safety.”

In early 2023, two EMS workers, Peggy Finley and Peter Cadigan, were charged with first-degree murder for 35-year-old Earl Moore Jr. of Springfield. The incident was caught on body-camera footage of Springfield Police Officers who were called to the scene.

“By putting these guardrails in place, we are ensuring public safety is at the forefront of our priorities,” the state senator added.

The law is effective immediately.

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