Sente Legislation Advocating for Residents with Disabilities and First Responders Signed Into Law

VERNON HILLS, IL – Public safety legislation introduced by State Representative Carol Sente, D-Vernon Hills, was signed into law by the governor last week.

“I believe our state should be at the forefront of accessibility for persons with disabilities, so my legislation sets a timeframe for standards to be improved or upheld.” Sente said. “Advocating for people with disabilities and ensuring that they are able to live as independently and safely as possible is one of my top priorities.”

House Bill 1462, now Public Act 98-0224, requires that the Capital Development Board updates the Illinois Environmental Barriers Act by using the federal Americans with Disabilities Act’s Standards for Accessible Design as a model. Sente’s legislation defines a clear timetable for the state’s Capital Development Board to update the outdated accessibility code to meet or exceed guidelines outlined in the most recent version of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

House Bill 1206, now Public Act 98-0206, supports Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), an emergency response organization composed of local government entities. This legislation permanently codifies MABAS’ status as a governmental entity into law and thereby grants them property tax exemption.

“As co-chair of the Fire Service Legislative Caucus, I recognize the importance of regular collaboration between various units of government,” Sente said. “In years past, MABAS has had to waste valuable resources by annually applying for property tax exemption and receiving it each time. I am hopeful that by removing this unnecessary red tape, MABAS will be able to fully focus their efforts on responding to emergencies and major disasters in our community.”

For more information, please contact Sente’s full-time constituent service office at (847) 478-9909, or email RepSente@gmail.com.