As used in this Act:
"Agency" means any branch, department, board, committee, or commission of State government. "Agency" does not include a unit of local government, school district, or board of election commissioners.
"State employee" means a permanent, full-time employee who has been employed by an agency for a period of 6 months or more and is a member of any fire department or fire protection district recognized by the State Fire Marshal.
5 ILCS 323/5