Legislation sponsored by State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) and State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) to cut unnecessary red tape for people with permanent disabilities has officially been signed into law.
Senate Bill 1256 codifies changes that reduce the burden on individuals seeking disability license plates or parking decals. Under prior law, permanently disabled individuals, or their parents or guardians, were required to submit documentation from a doctor to the Secretary of State to receive placards on a regular basis. The new law allows certifications to remain valid for five years and permits licensed physical therapists to sign off on applications, saving families time and the cost of additional medical visits.
“With this law, we are making sure that people with permanent disabilities no longer face repetitive and burdensome hurdles just to access parking accommodations they rely on,” said Senator McClure. “This law addresses a real problem by cutting red tape and making state government work better for the people it serves.”
“This bill was just basic common-sense. There’s no reason a person with a permanent disability should have to prove that every year,” said Representative Davidsmeyer. “This will alleviate hassle for both Illinoisans and government alike!”
Madeline Gumble, who lives with multiple sclerosis and brought this issue to the attention of McClure and Davidsmeyer, said the law will make a meaningful difference for many Illinoisans.
“I hope this bill makes a real difference for people living with multiple sclerosis and other disabilities. Navigating daily life with a disability is already challenging enough, and reducing unnecessary barriers means so much,” said Gumble. “I’m grateful that Senator McClure listened to my concerns and took action to help ease the process for those who need these services most.”
Senate Bill 1256 received unanimous support in the General Assembly before being signed into law.