SB 1964

Abstract

Amends the Toll Highway Act. Provides that the Toll Highway Authority has the power to enter into an intergovernmental agreement or contract with a unit of local government or other public or private entity for the collection by electronic means of tolls, fees, or revenues. Requires the Governor to appoint, with the advice and consent of the Senate, an Inspector General for the Authority, setting forth his or her powers and duties. Places certain restrictions on directors of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority and their employees and agents concerning receiving financial benefit from their positions or employment with the Authority. Makes changes concerning enforcement of tolls. Provides that the Office of the Inspector General shall be represented in all legal matters by the Attorney General. Provides that the Authority may spend toll highway funds only for specified purposes. Provides that the Authority must hold and publicize an annual public hearing on its annual budget. Requires the Authority to establish an amnesty program for toll violations. Establishes procedures for, and limitations on, the amnesty. Sets procedures for administrative adjudication of violations recorded by photo surveillance. Provides that toll evasion offenses adjudicated in the Authority's administration system are not subject to the fine range for petty offenses. Provides that it is a violation of the Act to operate on a toll highway a vehicle with a license plate covered with any material that obstructs the electronic image recording of the plate. Provides that a law enforcement officer may confiscate a license plate if the plate was treated with a substance to block electronic image recording. Deletes language providing that any person may file an action against the Authority for civil damages for any personal injury or property damage caused by agents or employees of the Authority. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.