New bill could waive building permit fees for disabled veterans in Illinois

Posted on May 16, 2024

*^{While the fee is waived, the paperwork to obtain a building permit must still be submitted. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)}*

By WMBD-TV

SPRINGFIELD – A new bill that is heading to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk would help disabled veterans who need to modify their homes.

Illinois Senate Bill 2751, will amend the codes in Illinois counties, townships and municipalities so that disabled veterans or their caretakers will not be charged any building permit fee.

The waived fee will be for any project at the residence of a disabled veteran that will make accommodations for the veteran’s disability.

The Illinois Senate passed the bill in April, and the Illinois House passed the bill on Wednesday. State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria) voted for the bill and said it was the least we could do for our veterans.

“Many of these individuals were willing to put their body on the line for us, and we should be looking at ways to support them here at home,” Gordon-Booth said. “We’re grateful for the service our veterans provided for our country, and are thankful for everything they continue to do for our community.”

While the fee is waived, the paperwork to obtain a building permit must still be submitted. Veterans or their caregivers will need to provide proof of their veteran status and the improvement needed when they apply for the permit.

WMBD-TV can be reached at [email protected].

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