Summary as Introduced
Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Makes a technical change in a Section concerning the short title.
Staff Analysis
House Amendment 1 (Adopted)
House Floor Amendment 1 to HB 0988 makes a focused change to the Illinois Vehicle Code by removing the definition of a “park zone street” as any portion of a State or local street or intersection under the control of a local unit of government.
Analysis and Potential Impact:
1. Narrowing the Definition
The amendment strikes language that broadly defined “park zone street,” which previously allowed for the designation of any state or local street or intersection under local government control as a park zone.
2. Regulatory Implications
By removing this broad definition, the amendment may limit or clarify the types of streets that can be officially designated as “park zones” for purposes such as speed restrictions, traffic enforcement, or signage.
3. Impact on Local Governments (Counties and Municipalities)
• This could reduce flexibility for local governments (including counties) to designate streets near parks or recreational areas as park zones unless a more specific definition remains or is added elsewhere in statute.
• Local units may need to reassess current park zone designations and their legal basis.
• May affect traffic enforcement policies, particularly regarding speed limits, signage, and safety enhancements near parks.
4. Public Safety Considerations
If fewer streets qualify as park zones due to this change, there could be concerns about the ability of local governments to enforce slower speed limits or additional protections in areas with high pedestrian or child activity.
Summary and Implications
This amendment removes a broad definition of “park zone street,” which could narrow the scope of areas eligible for park zone-related traffic controls. Counties and municipalities may need to reevaluate how they designate and enforce such zones, and whether additional legislative or regulatory clarity is needed to maintain safety around parks.