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Among the nearly 300 new laws going into effect are updates to
drivers’ education, including information about hazardous
material signage in Senate Bill 3406. Another measure requires
the Secretary of State to provide a driver’s license applicant
more information regarding move-over laws if they fail that
question on the test, as provided in House Bill 4711.
The phased-in process of setting up an eight-year driver’s
license for qualified applicants begins in the new year with
Senate Bill 275. So does the process of allowing the Secretary
of State to issue a mobile driver’s license upon request in
House Bill 4592.
State Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, raised a host of concerns
from the American Civil Liberties Union.
“Expanding law enforcement access to mobile devices in a way
that might have some privacy concerns,” Cassidy said during
spring session. “There may be issues around requiring an
internet connection to access the mobile ID which disadvantages
people who don’t have WiFi. Perhaps, could permit commercial
entities to discriminate or charge higher fees. We’ve seen this
in places that are refusing to take cash.”
State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, sponsored the measure and
said the enabling language will allow the Secretary of State to
start establishing more parameters around the optional form of
identification.
State Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, had concerns.
“I’m more worried about protecting my identity with my driver’s
license, or anyone else,” Caulkins said.
Buckner said the way it is now isn’t secure.
“It is easier today for somebody to pickpocket you and take your
license and take your ID and your identification than it is in
this system that we’re trying to create,” Buckner said.
Other laws going into effect impacting drivers include
prohibiting people from stopping the vehicle on the shoulder of
a highway near O’Hare Airport in House Bill 5408, commercial
garbage vehicles must have tailgates in good operating condition
and closed securely in House Bill 4848.
Also effective Jan. 1, House Bill 5559 requires auto insurers
provide the insured individual a description of the
determination of repair estimates and other costs and
calculations used in considering a vehicle a total loss. |
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