Illinois lawmakers are gearing up to enhance safety in highway work zones with the introduction of House Bill 2857, also known as the Highway Work Zone Safety Act. Proposed on March 7, 2025, this legislation aims to tackle the alarming issue of speeding in construction zones, a persistent danger for workers and drivers alike.

At the heart of the bill is the establishment of a Highway Work Zone Speed Control Program, which mandates the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois State Police to implement automated traffic control systems. These systems will monitor and enforce speed limits in construction and maintenance zones, capturing violations through photographic evidence without the need for a law enforcement officer to be present. Offenders caught exceeding the speed limit will face civil fines ranging from $100 to $200.

The bill also includes provisions to protect the privacy of collected data, stipulating that images and information gathered must be destroyed within two years and are not subject to court discovery. This aspect has sparked debates regarding privacy rights versus public safety, with some advocates arguing that the bill could lead to overreach in surveillance.

Supporters of the bill emphasize its potential to significantly reduce accidents and fatalities in work zones, where workers are particularly vulnerable. However, critics raise concerns about the reliance on automated systems, questioning their accuracy and the fairness of imposing fines without direct human oversight.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications could reshape how Illinois approaches traffic enforcement in construction areas, potentially setting a precedent for other states. With an effective date set for January 1, 2027, the outcome of this legislation could have lasting effects on road safety and law enforcement practices in Illinois.