Illinois § 4-9-3

Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-9-3, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4-9-3.

Every public utility shall provide equal and uniform service to all residents of any municipality adopting, or which is treated as having adopted, this article. It shall be unlawful and a sufficient ground for the forfeiture of any franchise for a public utility to grant free service, or to furnish better service, or to furnish service at a lower price or rate, quantity and quality considered, to any person, or otherwise to discriminate in the matter of rates or service between residents of any such municipality. Whenever the council receives proof that this section is being violated, they shall summon witnesses and investigate at once, and if they so find, they shall immediately institute a suit to have the franchise forfeited. However, the council shall have power by ordinance to grant a public utility the right to grant reduced rates to persons specified in the ordinance. Also, the council, by ordinance, may authorize any street railway, interurban railway, bus company or other public transportation system to transport free any member, while in uniform, of the police or fire department of the city within the corporate limits thereof, and may authorize the giving of such free transportation in other cases where there is no conflict with Section 4-8-6, or with the general law of the State, or with any act of Congress. Any person or public utility violating this section, and any person accepting any preference specified in this section, shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Any person receiving any special favor or privilege specified in this section, shall be immune from punishment in case he testifies to any matter referred to in this section in pursuance of subpoena from the council. (Source: P.A. 77-2500.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 4-9-3

What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-9-3 cover?

Section 4-9-3 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Illinois § 4-9-3?

A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-9-3" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Illinois law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.

How does Illinois § 4-9-3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.