ACLU Asks Elgin to Repeal Panhandling Ordinance

ELGIN, IL – The American Civil Liberties Union and the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless recently challenged 15 Illinois municipalities that have panhandling ordinances, including Elgin. After receiving the letter, the city stopped enforcing the ordinance and plans to take the next step of repealing the ordinance in coming months, according to the Daily Herald.

The current ordinance prohibits panhandling in specific places, including the roadway, city parking lots and bus stops. It also addresses “aggressive” panhandling. Elgin Corporation Counsel

Bill Cogley told the Daily Herald that most aggressive behavior, such as touching or using profane language while panhandling, can be regulated by police who could issue assault or disorderly conduct charges. Other towns, such as Elgin, are not enforcing their ordinance, examining the ordinance or have not yet responded.

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PHOTO VIA SHUTTERSTOCK