Among the nearly 300 new laws going into effect are updates to drivers’ education, including information about hazardous material signage in Senate Bill 3406. Another measure requires the Secretary of State to provide a driver’s license applicant more information regarding move-over laws if they fail that question on the test, as provided in House Bill 4711.

The phased-in process of setting up an eight-year driver’s license for qualified applicants begins in the new year with Senate Bill 275. So does the process of allowing the Secretary of State to issue a mobile driver’s license upon request in House Bill 4592.

State Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, raised a host of concerns from the American Civil Liberties Union.

“Expanding law enforcement access to mobile devices in a way that might have some privacy concerns,” Cassidy said during spring session. “There may be issues around requiring an internet connection to access the mobile ID which disadvantages people who don’t have WiFi. Perhaps, could permit commercial entities to discriminate or charge higher fees. We’ve seen this in places that are refusing to take cash.”

State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, sponsored the measure and said the enabling language will allow the Secretary of State to start establishing more parameters around the optional form of identification.

State Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, had concerns.

“I’m more worried about protecting my identity with my driver’s license, or anyone else,” Caulkins said.

Buckner said the way it is now isn’t secure.

“It is easier today for somebody to pickpocket you and take your license and take your ID and your identification than it is in this system that we’re trying to create,” Buckner said.

Other laws going into effect impacting drivers include prohibiting people from stopping the vehicle on the shoulder of a highway near O’Hare Airport in House Bill 5408, commercial garbage vehicles must have tailgates in good operating condition and closed securely in House Bill 4848.

Also effective Jan. 1, House Bill 5559 requires auto insurers provide the insured individual a description of the determination of repair estimates and other costs and calculations used in considering a vehicle a total loss.