FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

March 1, 2007

Dave Druker
Beth Kaufman

Illinois House Approves Legislation To Give Parents Online
Access to Teen Driving Records

The Illinois House of Representatives today approved legislation initiated by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and sponsored by State Rep. John D'Amico (D-Chicago) that will allow parents or guardians access to the driving records of their teenagers via the Internet.

Under the proposal (HB 518), parents and guardians can view their teenagers' driving record for free online. Parents will be able to access the youth's record until he or she turns 18 years old.

"I would like to thank the House of Representatives for approving this legislation," White said. "By giving adults access to their child's driving record, we are giving them a tool to keep them more involved in their teenagers' driving patterns as they proceed through the Graduated Driver's License program."

A successful Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program increases driving privileges for safe and responsible drivers in a gradual fashion, while simultaneously identifying those drivers who display dangerous or reckless driving habits. Safe teen drivers will gradually see their driving restrictions ease accordingly as they move from one stage to the next under GDL. Parental involvement is a critical component of any successful GDL program.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people age 15 to 20. Several recent studies concluded comprehensive GDL programs reduce teen traffic fatalities.

White has also initiated new legislation (SB 172) that would strengthen Illinois' GDL program and enhance the safety of young, novice drivers. The bill gives teens more time to obtain valuable driving experience while under the watchful eye of a parent or guardian, limits in-car distractions, and requires the teens to earn their way from one stage to the next by avoiding traffic convictions.

SB 172 passed the Senate Transportation Committee and now proceeds to the full Senate.