Bill named after Barrington girl struck by train would require pedestrian safety gates near schools

With the approach of the two-year anniversary of 17-year-old Marin Lacson’s death at a Barrington railroad crossing, a proposed legislation named in her honor would mandate pedestrian safety gates at crossings near schools in Illinois.

MARIN’s Law, which would amend the Illinois Vehicle Code to require railroad carriers to install, operate and maintain the gates within 1.5 miles of a school, was filed Thursday.

Lacson was struck and killed by a Metra train on the morning of Jan. 25, 2024, while crossing the tracks at Hough Street on the way to Barrington High School. She proceeded across the tracks after one train had already passed.

There are no pedestrian gates at the crossing. The Illinois Commerce Commission is currently considering a petition to install the gates at three Union Pacific crossings, including Hough Street.

MARIN stands for Measures Against Railroad Injuries Near Schools. It was filed Thursday in honor of Lacson’s lacrosse jersey number, according to a press release announcing the filing.

“When a tragedy like the loss of Marin Lacson occurs, the least we can do is take meaningful steps to make our communities safer,” said Rep. Nabeela Syed, who introduced the bill with the support of the Lacson family. “MARIN's Law reflects the determination of the Lacson family and dedicated advocates to drive real safety reforms and prevent future loss.”

Syed, whose district covers the far eastern edge of Barrington, partnered with the Barrington Student Safety Organization, a grass-roots group established following Lacson's death, to bring the legislation forward.

“With MARIN’s Law, Illinois will become a model for other states on protecting children and reducing railway related injuries and fatalities,” said Roma Khan, founder and president of the Barrington Student Safety Organization.

Mike Lacson, Marin’s father also voiced support for the bill.

“This common sense amendment to the Illinois Vehicle Code is long overdue,” he said. “It is now up to our lawmakers in Springfield to enact the change so that it doesn't take another tragedy to occur before deciding that safety at a pedestrian crossing needs to be improved.”

The bill awaits committee assignment. Supporters are seeking bipartisan passage during the 2026 legislative session.