SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A new Illinois law will require schools to include railroad safety information in student handbooks.

Sponsors say people have been concerned about schools near railroads and ensuring students know the protocols in place to keep them safe.

Schools could opt out of the requirement if their school boards find railroad safety is covered in their curriculum.

"It's only about six paragraphs that would be added to the parent student handbook," said Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). "It certainly is something that's needed. It is not a curriculum mandate. It is just something that will be added to the student handbook."

This law passed out of the Senate on a 56-1 vote and received unanimous support in the House.

"This is about prioritizing safety for our students," Glowiak Hilton said. "Sharing information about rail safety encourages informed decisions and helps bring awareness to the entire community." 

House Bill 4743 took effect Friday. 

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