D’Amico Ushers Road Safety Bills Through House Committee

Continuing his efforts to make Illinois roads safer, State Rep. John D’Amico (D-Chicago) received unanimous support for three drivers’ safety bills as they made their way out of the House Committee on Transportation: Vehicles and Safety.

“Last year there were over 950 traffic fatalities in Illinois,” said D’Amico. “We must do more to keep our motorists safe as they are traveling. These bills build upon recent efforts to protect all Illinoisans.”

House Bill 1009 strengthens the state’s graduated driver’s license (GDL) program by prohibiting a person under the age of 18 from obtaining a driver’s license if they have been driving a vehicle that caused serious injury to another party. The bill also allows a court to invalidate any driver’s license or learning permit if the holder is found to have contributed to a severe injury or traffic fatality. D’Amico also passed House Bill 1010 out of committee, which would prevent individuals who have been involved in fatal crashes from being eligible for court supervision.

D’Amico is the chief sponsor of House Bill 1247, which prohibits drivers from using hand-held electronic devices, including cell phones. The bill would require drivers to use a headset and operate electronic devices in hands-free mode, and would help law enforcement officials crack down on distracted driving.

“One of the biggest dangers we face on the road is distracted driving,” said D’Amico. “Every driver on the road is responsible for their actions, and when they are distracted they endanger themselves, their passengers, and people in other vehicles. I am committed to reducing distracted driving and protecting motorists across Illinois.”

D’Amico’s legislation now moves to the full House for consideration. For more information, contact Rep. D’Amico’s constituent service office at (773) 736-0218.