NORRIDGE, IL – State Representative Brad Stephens (R-Rosemont) is highlighting two bills he sponsored this spring – House Bill 1502 and House Bill 1648 – which were signed into law on Friday by Governor JB Pritzker.
House Bill 1502 modernizes traffic safety enforcement near O’Hare International Airport by transferring enforcement responsibilities from the Illinois Toll Highway Authority to the Illinois State Police. The State Police will now oversee automated traffic safety systems and issue violation notices for vehicles that stop or stand in restricted areas within a half-mile of key points near the airport. The bill also authorizes the use of existing infrastructure for enforcement equipment and gives the State Police authority to adopt rules for implementation.
“With HB 1502, we are delivering a streamlined, smarter enforcement framework that relies on the Illinois State Police’s expertise to better protect our motorists around O’Hare,” said Stephens. “With this bill, we can begin to properly utilize modern systems and the right agency to keep traffic moving safely.”
House Bill 1648 protects the pensions of downstate firefighters by prohibiting the transfer or assignment of benefits, such as through a mortgage or other arrangement. The bill includes an important exception allowing firefighters and retirees to voluntarily direct that their monthly pension benefits be paid to a fire service organization for purposes such as hospitalization insurance or association dues.
“HB 1648 fortifies the financial security of our firefighters by keeping their hard-earned pensions protected from predatory practices, while still honoring those who wish to support fire service organizations,” Stephens said. “This is about respect and protection for the people who risk everything for our safety.”
Stephens said both measures address real needs Illinoisans, both in District 20 and across the state, will benefit from upon their implementation.
“Whether it’s making travel safer around O’Hare or protecting the financial well-being of our firefighters, these bills are about practical, common-sense solutions that improve people’s lives throughout Illinois,” said Stephens.
Both laws take effect January 1, 2026.
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