Logan County Sheriff  Mark Landers:
Illinois Sheriffs' Association supports Pritzker enhancements to Scott's Law

 

[May 15, 2019] 

LINCOLN 

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association today stood with Governor Pritzker, Senator Antonio Munoz, Senator Neil Anderson, Representative John Cabello, Representative Marcus Evans and other members of law enforcement to announce proposed enhancements to Scott’s Law and the safety of all emergency personnel.

“There have been far too many terrible, yet preventable, accidents already in 2019. The proposed changes are a great first step, but this is just the beginning of an overall effort to evaluate how to improve the safety of all on our roadways”, said Jim Kaitschuk, Executive Director, Illinois Sheriffs’ Association.

Scott’s Law is (625 ILCS 5/11-907) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 11-907) (c) Upon approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle, when the authorized emergency vehicle is giving a signal by displaying alternately flashing red, red and white, blue, or red and blue lights or amber or yellow warning lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall:

(1) proceeding with due caution, yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle, if possible with due regard to safety and traffic conditions, if on a highway having at least 4 lanes with not less than 2 lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; or
 
(2) proceeding with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed for road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.

The proposal:

Creates new funds for law enforcement agencies to hire off duty police back to monitor construction and safety zones, purchase equipment and educate drivers

The fine increases from a minimum of $100 to $250 and $750 for the second offense and up to $10,000.

Damage to another vehicle is a Class A Misdemeanor Causing Injury or death to anyone is a Class 4 Felony

Causing death to emergency services personnel is a Class 2 Felony

Adds questions regarding Scott’s Law to driving exam

Creates “Move Over Task Force”-they shall provide recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2020

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association was founded in 1928. The ISA provides essential training and development for Sheriffs and their support teams. We also create, encourage and support various civic and youth-oriented programs. Through community outreach and the monetary support of its various memberships, the ISA continues to strengthen several important initiatives for our youth. The ISA is also a tremendous advocate for reasonable legislation regarding criminal justice to ensure the safety of the community and the officers that serve them.

Keeping lives safe and the well-being of our children are two of the most important investments we can make. Our sincere thanks for the commitment of our men and women in uniform along with the loyal support of citizens and businesses throughout Illinois. Together, we are making a difference!

Move Over, Slow Down and put down the phone. Help us all save lives.

[Submitted and Supported by Logan County Sheriff Mark Landers]