New Hurley-supported Laws to Bring More Expressway Cameras Online

CHICAGO – In response to highway shootings, carjackings and other crimes, more expressway cameras will soon be installed across Chicagoland under two new laws backed by state Rep. Fran Hurley, D-Chicago.

“When we talked with law enforcement, it became clear that they saw expanded highway camera use as a priority,” Hurley said. “Adding these cameras will empower law enforcement to better investigate crimes on our roadways and make driving safer for all of us.”

Hurley supported House Bill 4481, which increases the amount of highway cameras along the state highway system in 21 counties, as well as House Bill 260, which adds cameras along Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive. This year’s state budget committed $20 million toward the effort, which will help law enforcement agencies investigate criminal activities, as well as better detect highway conditions and coordinate safety and incident management services.

Both measures were recently signed into law by the governor.

“Adding automated license plate readers will give the Illinois State Police and other agencies greater ability to identify and apprehend criminals,” Hurley said. “If we want to tackle violence efficiently and effectively, we must continue to invest in modern resources that will help our police do their job well. Expanding highway camera use is a good step in the right direction.”