In an effort to combat fraudulent trucking log books, State Sen. Chris Nybo (R-Elmhurst) passed Senate Bill 1582 to increase the penalties for violations on motor carriers who “cook the books.” Fraudulent log books can easily become an issue when an overtired trucker exceeds legal limits on driving hours—distracted driving or falling asleep at the wheel has caused accidents resulting in bodily harm and death.
For those who violate motor carrier drivers’ hours-of-service regulations, Nybo’s bill would increase the current Class 4 felony to a Class 3 felony, which requires tougher sentencing requirements. Senate Bill 1582 is now awaiting action by the House of Representatives.