SPRINGFIELD – With other states reporting influxes in drivers concealing or switching their license plates to avoid legal repercussions, State Senator Steve Stadelman is working to ensure Illinois law explicitly bans license plate flippers.

“Devices like flippers allow drivers to evade tolls and law enforcement, creating unfair and unsafe road conditions for everyone,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “This measure reinforces the importance of accountability on our roads by making it clear these devices are illegal.”

Senate Bill 1883 builds on current law, clarifying that the use of tape or flippers on any registration plate and any other evidence of registration issued by the Illinois Secretary of State is illegal. A license plate flipper is a device that allows drivers – with the push of a button – to obscure their license plates, often used to avoid identification when committing traffic violations. Illinois would join the expanding number of states in outlawing license plate flippers.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is taking action to protect consumers and promote transparency in the ticket sales industry.

“There are many people who have been misled by the terms and conditions of buying a ticket online, often leading to extra fees,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “All consumers deserve to know up front the conditions and final price of their tickets. This measure will give consumers peace of mind before making a final purchasing decision.”

Speculative ticket listing refers to when sellers list tickets for events that they do not possess in the hope of acquiring them later at a lower price. This often leads to inflated ticket prices and leaves customers vulnerable to price gouging.

ROCKFORD – Following Stellantis’ announcement of delaying their investment in the Belvidere Assembly Plant in his district, State Senator Steve Stadelman is urging the company to follow through on their 2023 commitment to invest nearly $5 billion to revive the plant.

“Delaying the revitalization of the plant jeopardizes the economic security of our community, as well as the trust between Stellantis and the United Auto Workers,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “The deal we reached last October is good for our community and all parties involved, and it needs to be honored by Stellantis.” 

Belvidere Assembly Plant has been producing cars since 1965. Initially owned by Chrysler, the plant was purchased by Stellantis, a company owning several car brands including Dodge and Ram. A year after the buyout, Stellantis announced the plant was going to be “indefinitely closed” starting in 2023.

SPRINGFIELD – Victims of hazing will have new and strengthened protections thanks to State Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to support and protect victims of crime,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “We are sending a clear message that consent obtained through duress, manipulation or an abuse of power will not be tolerated as a defense in our justice system. This law ensures that perpetrators cannot escape accountability by exploiting their victims.”

Stadelman’s new law mandates that consent from a victim does not absolve perpetrators from prosecution. This significant legislative change aims to reinforce the protections afforded to victims of crime and ensure justice is served.

“This legislation is about justice and fairness,” said Stadelman. “It acknowledges the complex dynamics at play in many criminal cases, especially those involving vulnerable populations. No one should feel powerless in the face of their abuser, and this law helps ensure that victims have the support and protection they deserve.”

Senate Bill 2934 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.