A new Illinois law will target so-called “super-speeders,” requiring them to install speed-limiting devices in their vehicles if they commit multiple road violations.

Under provisions of HB 4948, which Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law on Friday, the state will introduce the “Intelligent Speed Assistance Program,” designed to replace license suspension with a different alternative for drivers.

According to the text of the law, the program will require drivers who have committed two qualifying speeding or reckless driving offenses within a 12-month period to install a speed-limiting device on their vehicles, which will prevent them from exceeding the speed limit.

Drivers would have up to 14 days after their second violation to obtain a permit for the device and to have it installed, and would be issued a restricted driver’s license that only permits them to operate vehicles with the device installed.

The measure officially goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2028, and passed both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly by large majorities.

Virginia and Washington have already passed similar laws according to the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, and Illinois officials are touting the legislation as a more effective alternative to license suspension.

The devices are similar to ignition interlock devices that require drivers to prove they aren’t under the influence of alcohol before they operate a vehicle, according to experts.

Persons enrolled in the program will pay all costs associated with enrollment and participation, with exceptions for low-income residents, according to the text of the legislation.

The policy proposal comes due to a rise in vehicle accidents and speed-related fatalities, according to researchers. According to the text of the legislation, approximately 75% of drivers with suspended licenses continue to drive, citing the National Cooperative Highway Research Program.

Speeding is a contributing factor in an estimated 29% of all traffic fatalities, resulting in 12,000 deaths annually according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Illinois lawmakers call fines, licenses points and suspensions “insufficient” in addressing the problem of chronic speeding, and the devices would be aimed at improving driver safety while also allowing drivers to continue operating their vehicles even after multiple traffic offenses, rather than suspending their licenses outright.

Washington lawmakers cited data showing year-over-year increases in speeding-related fatalities since 2019 when they passed their version of the bill last year.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – The Iowa City Community School District Board of Education has hired Amy Kortemeyer as the district’s new interim superintendent, effective July 1, 2026.

Kortemeyer brings more than three decades of experience in education, including several leadership roles within ICCSD.

She previously served as the district’s deputy superintendent from 2021 to 2023, assistant superintendent from 2016 to 2021, and director of elementary schools in 2015.

As of recent, Kortemeyer served as superintendent of the Linn-Mar Community School District.

Background and qualifications

Kortemeyer has held leadership roles in both Iowa City and Linn-Mar, serving as a superintendent, district-level curriculum leader, elementary principal and a classroom teacher.

She holds a superintendent’s certification and a master’s degree in elementary reading and language arts from the University of Northern Iowa, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Iowa.

In 2020, Kortemeyer was named a School Administrators of Iowa Central Office Administrator.

In 2016, she was selected for the American Association of School Administrators Aspiring Women Leaders Program.

Board response

“Amy brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of our district, and a proven record of educational leadership,” said Ruthina Malone, president of the Iowa City Community School District Board of Directors.

“We are confident her leadership will bring stability to the district and gain confidence back from the community in our financial situation. Amy has the skillset to really serve our district well as our interim superintendent, and we are excited to work with her.”

Kortemeyer said she is honored to return to the district.

“I am honored by the opportunity to return to the Iowa City Community School District as interim superintendent,” Kortemeyer said. “Having previously served here, I know firsthand the dedication of our educators, staff, students, families, and community members. I am grateful to work in collaboration with the Board and our employees to provide leadership during this time of transition as we support student success, strengthen relationships, and prepare the district for its next leader.”

Role and responsibilities

As interim superintendent, Kortemeyer will work with the Board of Directors, district staff, students, families and community partners.

Her role will include supporting the district’s strategic priorities and preparing for the transition to a permanent superintendent.