Section 225 ILCS 50/19 - [Section scheduled to be repealed effective 1/1/2026] Injunctions; civil penalties(a) The practice of prescribing, fitting, dispensing, and servicing hearing instruments or hearing aids by any person not at that time in possession of a valid and current license under this Act is hereby declared to be a Class A misdemeanor. The Director of the Department, through the Attorney General or the State's Attorney of any county, may maintain an action in the name of the people of the State of Illinois and may apply for an injunction in the circuit court to enjoin such person from engaging in such practice. Any person may apply for an injunction in the circuit court to enjoin a person from engaging without a license in practices for which a license is required under this Act. Upon the filing of a verified petition in such court, the court, if satisfied by affidavit or otherwise, that such person has been engaged in such practice without a current license to do so, may enter a temporary restraining order without notice or bond, enjoining the defendant from such further practice. A copy of the verified complaint shall be served upon the defendant and the proceedings shall thereafter be conducted as other civil cases. If it is established that the defendant has been, or is engaged in any unlawful practice, the court may enter an order or judgment perpetually enjoining the defendant from further such practice. In all proceedings hereunder, the court, in its discretion, may apportion the costs among the parties interested in the action, including cost of filing the complaint, service of process, witness fees and expenses, court reporter charges and reasonable attorneys fees. In case of violation of any injunctive order entered pursuant to this Section, the court may try and punish the offender for contempt of court. Such injunctive proceedings shall be in addition to all penalties and other remedies in this Act. Any such costs that may accrue to the Department shall be placed in the Fund.(b) A person who engages in the selling of hearing instruments or hearing aids or the practice of prescribing, fitting, dispensing, or servicing hearing instruments or hearing aids or displays a sign, advertises, or represents himself or herself as a person who practices the fitting and selling of hearing instruments or hearing aids without being licensed or exempt under this Act shall, in addition to any other penalty provided by law, pay a civil penalty to the Department in an amount not to exceed $5,000 for each offense, as determined by the Department. The civil penalty shall be assessed by the Department after a hearing is held in accordance with the provisions set forth in this Act regarding the provision of a hearing for the discipline of a licensee.(c) The Department may investigate any actual, alleged, or suspected unlicensed activity.(d) The civil penalty shall be paid within 60 days after the effective date of the order imposing the civil penalty. The order shall constitute a judgment and may be filed and execution had thereon in the same manner as any judgment from any court of record.Amended by P.A. 103-0495,§ 10, eff. 1/1/2024.P.A. 89-72, eff. 12/31/1995.