SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Sue Rezin’s legislation that would allow the Department of Natural Resources to charge a minimal parking fee at Starved Rock State Park failed to pass the full Senate on April 10 with a vote of 29-9. Senate Bill 1310 needed 30 “yes” votes to pass but fell short by one vote.

Following the vote, Rezin immediately put the bill on postponed consideration, which meant she could recall the bill giving it another chance at passing.

“Unfortunately, during floor debate I heard concerns from my Senate colleagues about my amendment to the bill that would exempt LaSalle County residents from paying a parking fee,” Rezin said. “I added this provision to the bill because local residents are already on the hook to pay for the increased impact Starved Rock has on our roads and first responders.”

When a second vote was taken on April 11, Rezin was still unable to gather up enough support to move the bill over to the House and it again fell one vote short from making it out of the Senate.

Senate Bill 1310 would have allowed the IDNR to charge a minimal parking fee that would go toward upkeep at the state park. “This bill was something that I was extremely passionate about as we continue to see Starved Rock struggle to keep up with the maintenance required from such a large number of visitors,” Rezin said. “While we are so lucky and fortunate to have this treasure in our backyard, it’s also important that we do what we can to keep it both beautiful and safe for future visitors.”

The April 11 vote on SB 1310 was 29-8-1.