Illinois lawmakers recently approved bills aimed at improving road safety, preventing cheating on Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exams, and modernizing state operations. These measures reflect a commitment to safer roads and more efficient government services.
One key initiative is House Bill 1226, which seeks to enhance road safety by raising the age at which Illinois drivers must take a behind-the-wheel test from 79 to 87. This change acknowledges advances in health and longevity, while still prioritizing safety.
Importantly, the bill introduces a process allowing immediate family members to report concerns about a loved one’s driving ability – something only four other states currently permit. If a family member notices that the elder shows a significant decline in driving skills or has medical issues that could impair safe driving, they can submit a report to the Secretary of State’s office, potentially triggering a driving test or medical review.
House Bill 2983 targets cheating on CDL exams by making it a crime to use hidden devices like a mobile phone or have another person provide answers during the test. The bill also allows for online CDL testing and requires that driver education materials include enhanced content on sharing the road safely with bicyclists and pedestrians. Notably, it mandates that vehicles must change lanes when passing cyclists.
If signed into law, these measures would represent a significant step forward in making Illinois roads safer. By allowing families to voice concerns about at-risk drivers and cracking down on CDL exam fraud, the state is working to prevent accidents before they happen. The emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian safety also reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect all those who share the road.
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