Pritzker signs plan requiring speed control devices for reckless drivers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A new Illinois law will address high-risk speeders across the state.

The legislation creates an intelligent speed assistance program within the Secretary of State's office as an alternative to license suspension for dangerous drivers.

Drivers who commit two offenses in a year will be required to install a speed-limiting device in their vehicle. This comes as 75% of people with suspended licenses continue to drive.

"Our current methods are not working," said Rudy Faust with Families for Safe Streets. "The intelligent speed assistance program is a practical and equitable step towards saving lives of both drivers and vulnerable road users without limiting mobility."

The Secretary of State will notify drivers that their license will be suspended until they complete the program. Participants will also pay $30 a month to use the device.

House Bill 4948 passed out of the Senate on a 49-9 vote. The measure received a 77-24 vote in the House with one representative voting present.

"Driving recklessly puts everyone on the road at risk of being involved in an accident," said Sen. Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "We need to continue our efforts to ensure high-risk drivers do not put others in danger."

The new law will take effect Jan. 1, 2028.