General Assembly Passes Giannoulias Measure Targeting Emerging Distracted Driving Threats from AI Wearable Technology

General Assembly Passes Giannoulias Measure Targeting Emerging Distracted Driving Threats from AI Wearable Technology


Legislation Clarifies Illinois Law to Restrict Use of Smart Glasses Behind the Wheel and Bolster Road Safety


The Illinois General Assembly has approved legislation backed by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias to modernize Illinois distracted driving laws by addressing the use of artificial intelligence smart glasses and other emerging technologies behind the wheel.

House Bill 4843 updates the Illinois Vehicle Code to clarify that electronic communication devices include artificial intelligence smart glasses, ensuring Illinois law keeps pace with rapidly evolving technology that can distract drivers and endanger public safety. The legislation also specifies that existing hands-free exceptions under Illinois law do not apply to the use of AI smart glasses while driving.

The measure builds upon Giannoulias’ broader “One Road. One Focus.” public safety initiative aimed at curbing distracted driving through education, awareness and enforcement efforts across Illinois.

“As technology evolves, our laws and public safety efforts must evolve with it. Emerging technology like AI smart glasses has the potential to dangerously divert a driver’s attention, reduce situational awareness and impair reaction time behind the wheel,” Giannoulias said. “Distracted driving is the drunk driving of our time. Through our ‘One Road. One Focus.’ initiative and this legislation, we are taking proactive steps to address new forms of distraction, change dangerous driving behavior and ultimately save lives on Illinois roadways.”

Launched during Distracted Driving Awareness Month in 2025, the Secretary of State’s “One Road. One Focus.” campaign introduced a mandatory distracted driving awareness video for teens applying for learner’s permits as part of a broader statewide effort to educate motorists and promote safer driving habits.

In 2024, over 3,200 people were killed and more than 315,000 injured nationwide in crashes involving distracted drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Illinois law currently prohibits the use of handheld electronic communication devices while operating a motor vehicle, with limited exceptions for hands-free and voice-operated use. HB 4843 clarifies that AI smart glasses do not fall within those exemptions due to the unique safety risks associated with wearable visual technology.

Having passed both chambers of the General Assembly, HB 4843 now heads to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk for consideration.

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