SPRINGFIELD – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Susan Garrett (D-Lake Forest) aimed at reducing unnecessary road traffic noise has passed both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly.

The bill will allow counties and municipalities to post signs prohibiting drivers of commercial vehicles from operating engine braking systems, or so-called Jake Brakes, that emit excessive noise.

“Jake Brakes pose a safety hazard because that can be distracting to other drivers, and a nuisance to people who live near highways or truck routes,” Garrett said. “These signs will let truck drivers know that area residents won’t tolerate improper use of these noisy brakes, and law enforcement will be on the lookout for violators.”

Jake Brakes are devices that mount on engine overheads and are used to slow down large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks.  When applied without adequate muffler systems, the noise they produce can be extremely loud, much like a jackhammer or large lawnmower.

Because they extend the life of wheel brakes and save money, many truckers liberally use the brakes to reduce speed.  Although this improper use of these brakes is illegal, the law is seldom enforced.

The bill now heads to the Governor for approval.