Villanueva advances measure to enhance Scott’s Law

SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Celina Villanueva is leading a measure to protect construction workers by enhancing Scott's Law.

"It is essential that we establish safety measures to help drivers navigate zone changes to prevent accidents," said Villanueva (D-Chicago). "Enhancing Scott's Law is a simple step to ensuring the safety of construction workers."

Scott's Law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights, and any stationary vehicle with their hazard lights activated. The measure also states, if changing would be impossible or unsafe, drivers would be required to proceed with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle and leave a safe distance until safely passing the stationary vehicle.

House Bill 5370 would enhance Scott's Law to require vehicles entering a construction or maintenance zone to reduce speed and change into a lane that is not adjacent to construction workers, when possible.

"In prioritizing the protection of construction workers by clarifying the language in Scott's Law, we create a more clear understanding for drivers of when this rule comes into play," said Villanueva. "These necessary changes will guarantee the safety of drivers, emergency responders, and those who work in construction and maintenance zones."

House Bill 5370 passed the Senate Transportation Committee and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.