IL HB5819

Replaces all references to "principal law enforcement officer" with "sheriff of the county where the march, assembly, meeting, parade, or gathering on roadways originates" throughout the Illinois Public Demonstrations Law.

Makes it a Class 4 felony to block an exceptionally busy public right-of-way (defined as carrying at least 24,000 motor vehicle movements in 24 hours) for 5 or more minutes in a manner that prevents free passage of peace officers, firefighters, or emergency medical services personnel, regardless of time of day or notice provided.

Establishes that notification to law enforcement and scheduling/timing considerations are not defenses to the Class 4 felony charge for blocking exceptionally busy public rights-of-way.

Requires the sheriff to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies in different jurisdictions when permission is requested, making it the sheriff's responsibility rather than the requester's to coordinate across jurisdictions.

Preempts home rule units from regulating public demonstrations in a manner inconsistent with state regulation under this Act, and takes effect immediately.