DeKalb Times

After months in limbo, a proposal ending road tests for Illinois seniors is gaining steam, thanks in part to pressure from older voters. The Illinois House Transportation: Vehicles and Safety Committee members approved legislation that would stop requiring people age 79 and up to take driving tests when renewing their licenses. Rep. Jeff Keicher, the sponsor of the bill, expressed, “What we are trying to address is the discriminatory practice of requiring behind-the-wheel tests for seniors to renew their license.”

The opposition to the policy grew when the secretary of state’s office shifted to an appointments-only system for driver services, making it difficult for seniors to schedule road exams. Sandra Lemke, a senior from Huntley, emphasized the need to repeal the law, stating, “This law must be repealed so that we can join the other 49 states who have found this law to be extremely age-discriminatory.”

During a hearing, Democratic Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl highlighted the importance of road safety, stating, “I think we can find a way to make it easier for seniors, in particular, to do testing but also make sure that we keep everybody, the seniors included, safe on the roads.” AARP Associate State Director Jeffrey Scott echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that older drivers are statistically among the safest on the road today, saying, “Just because you are older, it doesn’t mean that you are an unsafe driver.”

Rep. Keicher acknowledged the ongoing debate on resolving issues related to age-based testing for seniors and ensuring road safety. He expressed optimism about the bill's progress, mentioning the support it has garnered from both Democrats and Republicans. Keicher stated, “I have a very positive feeling… a lot of bills I thought would pass, didn’t.”

With 21 co-sponsors as of now, the fate of Bill 4431 remains uncertain. However, Keicher remains hopeful, recognizing the significant interest in the bill among lawmakers and constituents.