Yang Rohr Sponsors Legislation to Protect Emergency Responders from Dangerous Drivers

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Drivers who are caught in violation of Scott’s Law may face stiffer penalties according to new legislation sponsored by state Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, D-Naperville.

“Scott’s Law was passed to keep law enforcement and first responders safe as they are doing their jobs to keep our communities safe,” said Yang Rohr. “When drivers are reckless and unaware of their surroundings, they are putting their own lives and everyone else’s in jeopardy. By having dangerous drivers off the road, we can reduce traffic fatalities of first responders and other drivers.”

Yang Rohr sponsored Senate Bill 1913, which will allow courts to impose community service as an additional penalty for violating Scott’s Law. Scott’s Law mandates that when approaching any police or other emergency vehicle stopped along the roadway, a driver must: change lanes if possible, reduce their speed, and proceed with increased caution. Violators of Scott’s law currently face penalties such as fines of up to $250 – $10,000 or the suspension of driving privileges.

“Moving over and slowing down for emergency personnel is an easy law to follow if drivers are driving safely and responsibly,” said Yang Rohr. “We all can do our part to save lives by simply being aware of our surroundings and slowing down when appropriate.”

Senate Bill 1913 passed out of the Illinois General Assembly during the 2021 Spring Legislative Session and is now with Gov. JB Pritzker, where it awaits his signature to be signed into law.