State Legislation • Federal Legislation • Bike & Ped Resources

The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation worked to enact four major pieces of legislation of critical importance to bicyclists and pedestrians during the Illinois General Assembly 2007 session. The 2007 legislative agenda was developed in conjunction with the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation's statewide partner, the League of Illinois Bicyclists.

Complete Streets (AMENDATORY VETO OVERRIDDEN BOTH HOUSES)
Senate Bill 314 was passed by both houses and sent to the governor. On Aug. 30, Gov. Blagojevich effectively vetoed the legislation by adding language that gutted the bill's intent. During this month’s veto session, the Senate voted to override the veto Oct. 3 and the House did the same Oct. 9. SB314 directs the state to establish pedestrian and bike ways in the planning and construction of state road projects.

Sponsor: Sen. Edward D. Maloney; Representatives Joseph Lyons and John D'Amico

Bicycle Safety Amendments to the Vehicle Code (PUBLIC ACT 095-0231) Senate Bill 80 was signed by the governor on Aug. 16 and takes effect Jan. 1. SB 80 codifies the three-foot passing distance required of vehicles overtaking bicycles.

Sponsors: Senators Edward D. Maloney, Todd Sieben, Chris Lauzen, Michael Bond, Randall M. Hultgren, Carole Pankau, Larry K. Bomke, Pamela J. Althoff and Linda Holmes

Bicycles as Emergency Vehicles (PUBLIC ACT 95-0028)
Senate Bill 639 was signed by the governor on Aug. 7 and took effect immediately.
SB639 would give police and fire department bicycles emergency vehicle status, which allows officers to lawfully disregard traffic signals and directions in emergencies.

Sponsor: Rep. Edward J. Acevedo

Reckless Driving in Crosswalks (PUBLIC ACT 095-0467)
House Bill 508 was approved by the governor on Aug. 27 and takes effect June 1. HB508 sets higher penalties for violations in crosswalks.

Sponsor: Representatives Elaine Nekritz, Karen May, Julie Hamos, Linda Chapa LaVia, Jack D. Franks



Negligent Vehicular Homicide (TABLED)
The House passed House Bill 1382 overwhelmingly on April 18. It was tabled by the Senate. HB1382 creates fair and meaningful penalties (up to one year in jail) for motorists whose negligence causes death.

Sponsors: Representatives William B. Black, Naomi D. Jakobsson, Chapin Rose, Shane Cultra, Renee Kosel; Senators Michael W. Frerichs and Todd Sieben