Donald P. DeWitte, State Senator for the 33rd Senate District of Illinois. | www.ilga.gov
Donald P. DeWitte, State Senator for the 33rd Senate District of Illinois. | www.ilga.gov
Legislation aimed at ending discriminatory driving laws in Illinois has advanced, moving closer to becoming law. The proposed legislation, House Bill 1226, seeks to eliminate the requirement for automatic behind-the-wheel driving tests for drivers aged 79-87. Senator Don DeWitte, who introduced the bill last year, noted that it has now cleared a key Senate Committee and is headed to the Senate floor for final action.
The current law mandates that drivers aged 79 and 80 take a driving test when renewing their four-year license. For those aged 81-86, the test is required every two years, and annually for drivers over 87. HB 1226 proposes changes aligning Illinois' laws with senior driving regulations in other states. Under this bill:
- Drivers aged 79 and 80 would need to visit a DMV facility for license renewal and vision testing but not a driving test unless they have violations.
- Drivers between ages 81-86 would also be exempt from the behind-the-wheel test under similar conditions.
- The existing rules remain unchanged for those aged 87 and older.
Senator DeWitte expressed optimism about the bill's progress: "I am pleased to know that this year’s bill is gaining traction and is close to crossing the finish line." The legislation has support from Secretary Giannoulias and the Illinois AARP.
In related news, Senator DeWitte hosted two events recently. A pet adoption event held at St. Charles Hardware resulted in eight puppies finding new homes. Additionally, during Nurses Appreciation Week, gift bags were distributed to nursing staff at Advocate Sherman Hospital.
Residents of Illinois are reminded of upcoming events such as a Household Hazardous Waste Collection on June 7 in Crystal Lake and a Prescription Drug Takeback Event on May 16 in South Elgin. These initiatives aim to promote environmental safety and community well-being by encouraging proper disposal practices.
Upcoming outreach activities include traveling office hours across various locations where constituents can seek assistance with state-related issues. Additional events are scheduled throughout summer and fall as part of ongoing efforts to engage with local communities.
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