Illinois has taken steps to expand deputy sheriff hiring and toughen penalties for violations of Scott's Law, also known as the Move Over Law. The law requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles, including police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances, stopped on the roadside.
Under the new measures, the state aims to increase the number of deputy sheriffs to enhance law enforcement presence and response capabilities. Concurrently, penalties for Scott's Law violations have been strengthened, with increased fines and potential jail time for offenders who cause injury or death.
The changes come in response to a rise in roadside incidents and fatalities involving emergency personnel. According to the Illinois State Police, there were over 1,000 Scott's Law violations in 2025, resulting in several deaths and injuries. The new law seeks to deter such violations and protect first responders.
Governor JB Pritzker signed the legislation on July 15, 2026, emphasizing the state's commitment to road safety. The expansion of deputy hiring is expected to be funded through state budget allocations, with a focus on rural and underserved areas.
