Kane County Reporter

State Rep. Keith Wheeler (R-Oswego) recently introduced legislation that aims to help make the final few weeks of pregnancy easier. 

House Bill 3027 would allow expecting mothers to obtain a free special placard for their vehicle permitting the use of handicap parking spots for 90 days. Last week on the House floor, Wheeler said the bill is referred to as "Henry's Law."

"This bill was brought to my attention when my office director got the news that he was going to be a father," Wheeler said. "The baby's mother has a full-time job which is a lengthy walk from the employee parking lot up to the hill and a steep incline to get to her door."

Unfortunately the mother went into early labor and delivered Henry Markham at 21 weeks gestation; Henry lived for about 30 minutes. 

Pregnant mothers, especially those in their third trimesters who have long, difficult walks to their places of employment, are not currently eligible for parking assistance.

"We believe that this will be incredibly helpful to working moms who find themselves facing a similar situation especially during our harsh winter months," Wheeler said. "Imagine all the times you've been in a place of business with an icy parking lot.

"Our vote today is a great way to honor [Henry's] memory and demonstrate that a life that only lasted for half an hour can make a huge difference in the lives of thousands of moms and babies across our state."

The handicap designation that HB 3027 would offer is only temporary and only applies to handicap parking in the State of Illinois. The placard is free as long as documentation of pregnancy and a valid Illinois driver's license can be provided. 

HB 3027, which has over 50 bipartisan co-sponsors, now moves to the Senate for consideration.