Allow limited driving after four DUIs?

Drivers convicted of DUI four times or more would be allowed to get some driving privileges back under a plan approved by the Illinois House Tuesday.

State Rep. Elaine Nekritz, a Northbrook Democrat, said allowing some people to get restricted driving permits could make the roads safer. The permit would allow driving for limited purposes, like to go to work.

Now, a person loses driving privileges for life after four DUI convictions. But people who get their licenses taken away might illegally get behind the wheel anyway, Nekritz said.

To get a permit under the new plan, drivers would have to wait for five years after their most recent license revocation or release from prison and show they've not used alcohol or marijuana for three years. Plus, drivers' cars would have to have a device that will test them for alcohol use before it starts.

State Rep. Jeanne Ives, a Wheaton Republican, wondered if the Secretary of State's office would be restrictive enough in handing out the permits.

The Illinois House approved the plan by a 65-47 vote, sending the it to the Illinois Senate for further review.

"I think this does everything the right way, and it continues to support safe driving," state Rep. Ron Sandack, a Downers Grove Republican, said.