Bill requiring speed control devices for reckless drivers heads to IL Senate

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan heading to the Illinois Senate could help address high-risk speeders across the state.

Advocates hope to create an intelligent speed assistance program within the Illinois Secretary of State's office as an alternative to license suspension for dangerous drivers.

This comes as sponsors say 75% of people with suspended licenses continue to drive.

The bill states drivers who commit two qualifying offenses within a year would be required to install the speed limiting device in their vehicle.

"A qualifying offense is a conviction or order of court supervision for excessive speeding over 25 miles per hour over the limit or reckless driving," said Rep. Martha Deuter (D-Westmont). "This program would be administered by the Secretary of State's office and fully funded by participants."

The Secretary of State would notify drivers that their license will be suspended until they complete the program. Participants would also pay $30 per month into the Intelligent Speed Assistance Permit Fee Fund.

Some Republicans said they are concerned that the devices may limit how drivers could get around other vehicles to avoid accidents or other hazards.

"Does this technology allow for intermittent excesses over the posted speed limit so you can get yourself out of that kind of mess or is this something that is going to stop right at the posted speed limit and you're going to get shoved off the road," asked Rep. Steve Reick (R-Woodstock).

Deuter explained the devices have an override button that could allow drivers to go above the speed limit during emergencies.

House Bill 4948 passed out of the House on a 77-24 vote with one representative voting present.