News » Top Stories

Quinn signs law supporting public safety officers raising money for charity

By WEEK Reporter

Quinn signs law supporting public safety officers raising money for charity

June 15, 2012 Updated Jun 15, 2012 at 10:56 AM CDT

LOMBARD, Ill --Governor Pat Quinn signed a new law that makes it easier for public safety officers to raise money for charity on Friday.

The new law ensures that counties or municipalities allow police officers and firefighters to collect charitable donations from motorists as they work along the roadside.  The Governor signed the law at the Associated Firefighters of Illinois' (AFFI) 39th Biennial Convention in Lombard.

Illinois is the sixth state in the nation to enact such a law.

"The men and women who protect us are known for serving their communities in and out of uniform," Governor Quinn said.  "It is fitting that we salute the AFFI with a new law that will allow them to continue supporting organizations that improve the quality of life for the people of Illinois."

A number of communities have begun passing bans prohibiting public safety officers from collecting charitable donations along roadways, citing safety concerns.  Under the new law, public safety officials cannot be denied permits from municipalities or counties to collect donations as long as certain requirements are met.

To submit a comment on this article, your email address is required. We respect your privacy and your email will not be visible to others nor will it be added to any email lists.