August 9, 2004

To the Honorable Members of the

Illinois House and Representatives

93^rd General Assembly

            Pursuant to Article IV, Section 9(b) of the Illinois Constitution of 1970, I hereby veto House Bill 4651, entitled “AN ACT concerning mobile homes.”  This bill reduces minimum setback requirements for mobile homes.   As a result, House Bill 4651 weakens fire safety standards for mobile home parks and raises legitimate safety concerns for local fire departments.   In addition, it preempts a home rule entity from establishing more restrictive setback requirements.  More restrictive setback requirements may be necessary depending on the needs and desires of a particular community.

            For this reason, I hereby veto and return House Bill 4651.

Sincerely,

ROD R. BLAGOJEVICH

Governor