SPRINGFIELD – With worries about hazardous material explosions on the rise, schools would be required to establish emergency evacuation plans under a measure from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“It’s vital to establish clear plans before an emergency happens, which is why our schools need to know how to best protect their students should the unthinkable happen,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “Evacuation plans developed with emergency management experts give schools the tools they need to act quickly and confidently in a hazardous spill – saving time, reducing chaos and protecting lives.”

Under this legislation, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security would be required to work with the Illinois State Board of Education to develop guidance detailing the potential impacts of an explosion or release of hazardous substances near schools. The guidance must include recommendations for evacuation plans, communication protocols and how to identify a school district’s local disaster agency. This guidance would be shared with all local emergency planning committees, emergency services and disaster agencies and school districts in the state by July 1, 2026.

Equipped with the agency’s guidance, both private and public schools would need to develop school procedures in the event of an explosion or release of hazardous substances. The districts would have until July 1, 2027 to have evacuation, communication, and training programs established at each school in their district.

“Preparing for accidents isn’t just taking precaution – it’s demonstrating responsibility,” Murphy said. “Schools and emergency officials working together means faster responses and safer outcomes for our children.”

Senate Bill 71 passed the Senate Wednesday.