Secretary of State to crack down on illegal use of disability parking spaces

By Northern Star Staff

Secretary of State Jesse White announced plans to target illegal uses of disability parking spaces in a Tuesday news release.

The initiative kicked off on Black Friday at major malls and shopping centers across the state, according to the release. Other enforcements and patrols will take place throughout Illinois.

“Our mission is not to give tickets, but to ensure the parking spaces are available to those who need them,” White said in the release. “My message is simple: if you don’t belong there, don’t park there.”

The fine for parking in a space without a proper placard or licence plate can be as much as $350 in Illinois, and up to $500 for using a placard or plate without the registered owner of the credentials in the car, according to the release.

Citizens are urged to report abuse of accessible parking spaces by calling 217-785-0309, or by visiting www.cyberdriveillinois.com. Callers should have license plate or placard numbers available, as well as the location of the vehicle on hand, according to the release.