Alexi Giannoulias public records

Giannoulias Launches Disability Parking Placard Pilot as New Law Expands Access for Caregivers

New Law Provides Meter-Exempt Parking Relief for Parents and Guardians Transporting Individuals Unable to Drive

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has launched a pilot program to make disability parking placards easier to obtain as a newly signed law expands accessible parking relief for families caring for children and individuals with disabilities. The law allows the Secretary of State’s office to issue meter-exempt disability parking placards to legal guardians who transport individuals with disabilities who are incapable of driving.

“Families caring for children and individuals with disabilities already face enough challenges – accessing parking while transporting a loved one to medical appointments, therapy, school or other essential services should not be an added burden,” Giannoulias said. “This legislation provides meaningful relief for caregivers while making it easier for eligible Illinoisans to obtain the parking placards they need. It’s another step toward delivering more accessible, customer-focused services across our state.”

Giannoulias Insurance Reform Delivers Historic Consumer Protections for Illinois Drivers

Landmark Legislation Gives Illinois the Power to Challenge Excessive Insurance Rate Hikes, Strengthens Consumer Protections and Increases Transparency

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias today joined Governor JB Pritzker as he signed landmark legislation, transforming how auto insurance rates are regulated in Illinois. The measure establishes long-overdue safeguards with the strongest consumer protections in decades and gives the state new authority to challenge excessive premium increases.

“For too long, Illinois drivers have been at the mercy of insurance companies – forced to accept steep insurance rate increases with virtually no oversight and no recourse,” Giannoulias said. “Today, we level the playing field for consumers. This victory belongs to the thousands of Illinoisans spoke out, shared their…

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Giannoulias Initiative Strengthens Oversight of Tow Truck Industry and Fights Fraud

Legislation Enhances Enforcement Authority to Protect Consumers, Revoke Registrations and Hold Bad Actors Accountable

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ initiative to crack down on rogue tow truck operators, strengthen oversight of tow truck registrations and combat fraud has been sent to Governor JB Pritzker.

“For too long, rogue tow-truck operators have exploited loopholes in the system, deceived consumers and undercut the honest businesses that play by the rules,” Giannoulias said. “This legislation gives us stronger enforcement tools to identify bad actors, revoke their registrations and remove them from Illinois roads.”

Skip a DMV Trip by Visiting the Secretary of State Tent at the Illinois State Fair

Giannoulias to Offer REAL IDs, Illinois Authors and Family Fun

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting Illinois State Fair visitors to stop by the office’s tent to apply for a REAL ID, renew a driver’s license or vehicle registration, explore family history through free genealogy searches, meet award-winning Illinois authors and enjoy free activities for kids.

“The Illinois State Fair is all about celebrating what makes our state special and we’re excited to bring Secretary of State services directly to thousands of Illinoisans while they’re already enjoying a great family tradition,” Giannoulias said. “Instead of making a separate trip to the DMV, fairgoers can take care of essential business, research their family history or spend time with their kids at an author reading.”

Giannoulias Announces Statewide Blue Envelope Program to Improve Safety During Traffic Stops

New Law Creates Voluntary Program to Strengthen Communication Between Law Enforcement and Drivers with Autism Starting in 2027

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias today announced that Illinois will launch a statewide Blue Envelope Program, following the recent signing of legislation into law.

"A routine traffic stop can be one of the most stressful moments for someone with autism," Giannoulias said. "A simple blue envelope can make an extraordinary difference by helping officers immediately recognize that a driver may communicate differently or need a little more time to respond. This program is about improving understanding, reducing unnecessary escalation and making sure everyone gets home safely."

Giannoulias Launches Statewide Summer Reading Challenge With Chance to Throw Out First Pitch at Wrigley Field

Illinois Literacy Foundation and Chicago Cubs Partner to Encourage Summer Reading Through Local Libraries

“Reading opens up doors for young people, but too many students miss out on valuable learning opportunities over the summer months,” said Giannoulias. “Illinois Reads Together is a fun way to keep kids engaged while supporting the outstanding summer reading programs already offered by public libraries across our state. We’re proud to partner with the Illinois Literacy Foundation and the Chicago Cubs to inspire more families to visit their local library this summer.”

Giannoulias Warns Investors About New “Mr. Finance” Solicitations, Urges Clients to Come Forward

More Than 300 Investors Come Forward as State Expands Securities Enforcement Action

“More than 300 people have now been identified through our investigation, and the fact that Mr. Ellington is allegedly continuing to solicit new investors despite prior enforcement action makes these allegations even more alarming,” Giannoulias said. “Too many people have already lost retirement savings, taken out…

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Giannoulias Marks Major Victory for Illinois Drivers Facing Skyrocketing Costs with Landmark Auto Insurance Reform

Four‑Year Effort to Address Insurance Inequities Culminates in Stronger Consumer Protections, Greater Transparency and Meaningful Rate Oversight

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias highlighted landmark auto insurance reform legislation that would, for the first time, give Illinois regulators the authority to review and challenge excessive insurance rate increases while strengthening oversight of insurance companies and delivering long-overdue transparency, accountability and consumer protections for Illinois drivers.

“For far too long, Illinois drivers have been left with little recourse as insurance companies imposed steep premium increases without meaningful oversight – answering to no one but their bottom line” said Giannoulias. “This legislation finally changes that. It gives Illinois the authority to challenge excessive and unfair increases while delivering the long-overdue transparency, accountability and consumer protections drivers need and deserve.”

Giannoulias Urges Parents to Do Their Homework Before Buying an E-Bike for Their Children

New PSA and Online Buying Guide Help Families Choose Safe, Age-Appropriate Devices

To help families make informed choices, Giannoulias released a new public service video today as part of the Secretary of State’s Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride Ready campaign and directs parents to a new online E-bike Buying Guide that explains the differences between low-speed e-bikes, high-speed e-bikes and e-motos, outlines Illinois’ new proposed safety standards and offers practical tips for selecting a safe, age-appropriate device.

“Parents shouldn’t assume every product labeled an ‘e-bike’ is actually safe and appropriate for kids,” Giannoulias said. “Some of these devices can reach highway speeds and are being marketed alongside traditional e-bikes, making it difficult for families to know what they’re buying. Spending a few minutes to do your research before making a purchase can keep children safe and prevent serious injuries.”

Speaker Welch to Lead National Reading of Declaration of Independence on Illinois State Capitol Steps

Free Public Event is Part of the Nationwide America 250 Commemoration; Exhibits and Family Programming Continue Throughout July

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced that Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch will lead the Capitol reading in Springfield hosted by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office through the Illinois State Library and Illinois State Archives as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration.

“In joining communities across all 50 states for this synchronized reading of the Declaration of Independence, Illinois is participating in an exceptional moment of national unity,” Giannoulias said. “Illinois has always played a defining role in shaping our country’s story, and this event gives us an opportunity to…

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Secretary of State’s Office Earns National Recognition for Excellence

First Illinois State Agency Ever to Receive National Recognition for Procurement Excellence

The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has become the first Illinois state agency to ever receive the national Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) Award from the National Procurement Institute. This marks a milestone for the office’s ongoing efforts to deliver more efficient, transparent and accountable…

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Amid Increased ICE Activity, Giannoulias Urges Public to Report Illegal License Plate Tampering

Giannoulias: “No One is Above the Law”

As federal immigration activity intensifies once again in Illinois, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is urging residents to immediately report any vehicle displaying altered, obscured, missing or unlawfully switched license plates, warning that plate tampering is illegal under Illinois law, regardless of who commits it.

“License plates are one of the most basic tools of public accountability on our roads,” Giannoulias said. “Anyone who tampers with, removes or swaps a license plate makes vehicles harder to identity, undermines public safety and violates Illinois law. That applies equally to everyone – including ICE agents. If you witness license plate tampering, report it immediately. No one is above the law.”

Giannoulias Unveils America 250 Celebration Highlighting Illinois’ Lasting Impact on the Nation

New Online Hub, State Archives Social Media Channels and Springfield Exhibits Invite Illinoisans to Explore the State’s History and Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting Illinoisans to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with the launch of a new America 250 website, Illinois State Archives social media channels and a series of exhibitions and events highlighting Illinois’ profound impact on the nation’s history.

“Illinois has helped shape the American story from the frontier days of Abraham Lincoln to the innovations, movements and leaders that continue to influence our nation today,” said Giannoulias, who also serves as the State Archivist and State Librarian. “As we commemorate this historic milestone, we invite Illinoisans…

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Giannoulias Announces $27 Million Investment to Build Safer, Stronger Libraries for Illinois Families

Funding Will Expand Access to Learning, Support Library Construction and Improve Security Across the State

The funding will support public and school libraries serving millions of Illinois residents and students while ensuring communities across the state have access to the resources they need to learn, grow and thrive. Since taking office in 2023, Giannoulias has directed more than $183 million in grant funding to support public libraries, school libraries and adult literacy programs throughout Illinois.

“Libraries are one of the best investments we can make in our communities,” Giannoulias said. "They help children discover a love of reading, connect job seekers with new opportunities, provide critical access to technology and serve as trusted spaces for millions of Illinoisans. These investments reflect our commitment to ensuring every Illinoisian – regardless of ZIP code – has access to quality library services, modern facilities and welcoming spaces while protecting their freedom to learn, read and explore.”

Giannoulias Releases Firework Safety PSA Urging Illinoisans to Celebrate Safely This Independence Day

Officials Warn Fireworks Can Cause Serious Injury and Even Death When Used Improperly

As Illinois families prepare to celebrate Independence Day, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias released a public safety announcement urging residents to leave fireworks to trained professionals and attend organized community displays.

“Fireworks are meant to bring people together and celebrate our nation’s independence,” Giannoulias said. “But every year, emergency rooms treat Illinoisans suffering from severe burns, eye injuries and other life-altering injuries caused by fireworks. The safest way to enjoy the holiday is to attend a professional display and leave the fireworks to the experts.”

Giannoulias Ends Mandatory Road Tests for Drivers Ages 79-86

Road Safety & Fairness Act Takes Effect July 1, Replacing Outdated Age-Based Requirement with Smarter, Data-Driven Approach

“The Road Safety & Fairness Act is about replacing outdated assumptions with facts,” Giannoulias said. “Illinois seniors have consistently proven they are among the safest drivers on our roads. This law removes an unnecessary burden for older drivers while preserving strong safeguards to protect everyone who travels on our streets.”

General Assembly Passes Giannoulias Measure Targeting Emerging Distracted Driving Threats from AI Wearable Technology

Legislation Clarifies Illinois Law to Restrict Use of Smart Glasses Behind the Wheel and Bolster Road Safety

“As technology evolves, our laws and public safety efforts must evolve with it. Emerging technology like AI smart glasses has the potential to dangerously divert a driver’s attention, reduce situational awareness and impair reaction time behind the wheel,” Giannoulias said. “Distracted driving is the drunk driving of…

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Giannoulias Announces Dutch Reach Awareness Campaign to Help Prevent Tragic Crashes

Simple Safety Technique Helps Drivers Comply with Illinois Law and Protect Cyclists and Pedestrians

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announces Dutch Reach awareness campaign to help prevent tragic crashes. The Dutch Reach, a technique for safely exiting a vehicle, has been promoted through Illinois driver education programs and the Rules of the Road publication as a simple way to improve awareness of…

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“No one should lose their life because a motorist failed to look before opening a car door. This tragedy is a painful reminder that every driver and passenger has a responsibility to be aware of the people around them,” Giannoulias said. “The Dutch Reach is a simple habit that takes just a second, but that second can prevent a crash, save a life and make our roads safer for everyone.”

Giannoulias Announces First-Ever Statewide Digital Library Resource Program

Illinois Reliable Information Sources (IRIS) Expands Access to E-Books, Research Databases and Educational Resources for All Illinois Residents

Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced a landmark investment to expand access to information and educational resources statewide by awarding a first-of-its-kind contract for a comprehensive digital library resource program.

“Access to reliable information should not depend on a person’s ZIP code or the financial resources of their local library,” Giannoulias said. “This investment will ensure every Illinois resident has access to educational, professional and personal enrichment resources while helping libraries stretch limited budgets and better serve their communities.”

Giannoulias Delivers Landmark Micromobility Safety Framework to Combat Rising Injuries and Fatalities

Comprehensive Statewide Reforms Providing Clarity for High-Speed E-Bikes, E-Motos and Other Electric Devices Heads to Governor’s Desk

Senate Bill 3484 is the cornerstone of Giannoulias’ Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride Ready campaign – a first-of-its-kind statewide effort to address the rapid rise of electric mobility devices through education, training, enforcement and modernized safety standards. As increasingly powerful e-bikes, e-motos and other…

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“This legislation brings clarity, accountability and common-sense protections to our roads, sidewalks, bike paths and bike lanes while ensuring Illinois keeps pace with rapidly evolving transportation technology,” Giannoulias said. “By passing this bill, we are helping prevent serious injuries, protecting pedestrians and riders, and creating uniform statewide standards that prioritize public safety.”

Illinois Drivers Hit With 18% Rate Hike Will Get Relief as Giannoulias’ Insurance Reform Bill Heads to the Governor

Bill Ends Illinois’ Status as One of Just Two States With No Power to Challenge Auto Insurance Rate Hikes

Senate Bill 714, championed by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, cleared the General Assembly after Illinois drivers were hit with an 18 percent rate increase in 2024 – among the steepest in the nation – while insurers reported record profits.

“Insurance companies are raking in record profits while Illinois families are choosing between their car insurance and groceries,” Giannoulias said. “Even safe drivers doing everything right are getting hammered with hike after hike. This bill finally gives Illinois the tools every other state but one already has: the power to say no to unfair rates.”

Giannoulias’ Auto Insurance Reform Bill Passes Illinois Senate

Legislation Targets Unfair Insurance Practices and Strengthens Consumer Protections for Illinois Drivers

“Car insurance rates are crushing Illinois families. Even worse, auto insurance companies aren’t basing these premiums on your driving records. As Secretary of State, I’ve been clear that Illinois drivers deserve fair and affordable auto insurance, especially those that have never had a driving violation.” Giannoulias…

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Giannoulias Unveils First-Ever Business Services Center, Streamlining Services for Faster, More Convenient Access

Centralized Downtown Location Saves Nearly $650K and Improves Efficiency by Bringing Business, Index and DMV Kiosk Services Together

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced the opening of the office’s first-ever Business Services Center in downtown Chicago, bringing together key business-related services in a centralized, customer-focused location while reducing operational costs.

“For the first time, we are creating a dedicated space focused on the needs of Illinois businesses and customers seeking critical document services,” Giannoulias said. “By bringing Business Services and Index services together under one roof, we are improving efficiency, reducing wait times and making it easier for customers to access the services they need quickly and conveniently.”

Giannoulias’ First Business Services Resource Fair Draws Hundreds, Connects Entrepreneurs to Critical Resources

Free Event Brought Together Aspiring and Established Business Owners with Licensing, Registration, Tax and Funding Support

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias highlighted the success of the office’s first-ever Business Services Resource Fair, which drew more than 500 attendees from across Illinois to connect with the tools and resources needed to start and grow a business.

“Too many people with great ideas never get their business off the ground because the process can feel confusing, expensive and stacked against them,” Giannoulias said. “This is exactly the kind of work government should be doing: breaking down barriers and making it easier for people to pursue opportunity. When we support entrepreneurs, we’re not just helping individual businesses, we’re strengthening communities and growing our economy.”

Convenience Meets Innovation: Giannoulias Debuts Redesigned Des Plaines DMV Facility

New One-Stop-Shop Location Streamlines Services and Expands Access for Customers

“The opening of this redesigned Des Plaines facility is about rethinking how we deliver service to better meet people where they are,” Giannoulias said. “With a more efficient layout and our One-Stop-Shop approach, we’re cutting down complexity, increasing access to appointments and making every visit quicker and easier for customers.”