PANDHANDLING RESTRICTIONS

Creates the Illinois Safe Sidewalks and Roadways Act. Makes it unlawful for a person to panhandle after sunset or before sunrise. Makes it unlawful for a person to panhandle when the person solicited is in any of the following places: (1) at any bus stop or train stop; (2) in any public transportation vehicle or facility; (3) in any vehicle on the street; or (4) on private property, unless the panhandler has permission from the owner or occupant. Makes it unlawful for any person to panhandle in any of the following manners: (1) by coming within 3 feet of the person solicited, until that person has indicated that he or she wishes to make a donation; (2) by blocking the path of the person solicited along a sidewalk or street; (3) by following a person who walks away from the panhandler; (4) by using profane or abusive language, either during the solicitation or following a refusal; (5) by panhandling in a group of 2 or more persons; or (6) by any statement, gesture, or other communication which a reasonable person in the situation of the person solicited would perceive to be a threat. Makes it unlawful for any person to knowingly make any false or misleading representation in the course of soliciting a donation. Provides that any person who commits a first or second violation of the Act is guilty of a petty offense and shall for a first violation be fined $100 and for a second violation be fined $500. Provides that a third or subsequent violation is a Class C misdemeanor. Defines "panhandle". Contains a severability provision. Effective immediately.