Metro East Sun

Springfield, IL – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) and State Representative Amy Elik (111th-Alton) have announced the passage of several pieces of legislation with bipartisan support for the 2024 spring legislative session.

“I am thrilled to have passed several key pieces of legislation that I truly think can make a positive impact for the people of our state and the Metro East region,” said Senator Harriss. “While there were other very important pieces of legislation that we unfortunately weren’t able to pass yet, I will continue to advocate for these proposals in the future.”

“I’m grateful for the bipartisan support on these bills and believe these bills reflect our commitment to public safety, government transparency, and strong communities,” stated Rep. Elik.

The following bills were passed by both Senator Harriss and Representative Elik:

Senate Bill 3567 aims to increase transparency in local units of government proposing to raise their tax levy by more than 5 percent. The bill amends the current Truth in Taxation law in the Property Tax Code, requiring notices be placed on or near the top of taxing districts' websites for at least 30 days to maximize visibility, in addition to existing law that requires publishing notices in local newspapers.

Senate Bill 3566 mandates any landfill in counties with populations over 250,000 provide facilities at landfill locations for cleaning mud, gravel, waste, and other material from wheels and undercarriages of trucks and other vehicles leaving the site.

House Bill 4255 seeks to enhance roadway safety for motorists approaching stopped or parked emergency vehicles responding to accidents or emergency scenes. The bill amends the Illinois Vehicle Code allowing green lights on specified vehicles at emergency scenes. Green lights can be used along with amber and white lights and can be oscillating, flashing, or rotating. Authorized vehicles include tow trucks, fire department and police vehicles, as well as various types utilized by federal, state, or local authorities.

Senate Bill 3571 requires automated external defibrillators (AEDs) be present at all schools during school hours and during school-sponsored extracurricular activities on school grounds.

Each bill now heads to the Governor’s desk for signing into law.

Senator Harriss serves the 56th District which includes portions of Madison and St. Clair counties. For more information or to contact Sen. Harriss’ office visit www.senatorericaharriss.com. Rep. Elik serves the 111th District which includes Madison County. For more information or to contact Rep. Elik visit www.repelik.com.