Illinois Eyes Driving Ban on Smart Glasses

Illinois is poised to become the first state to enact a ban on smart glasses while driving. The state legislature has approved a bill that introduces specific language into driving laws, prohibiting the use of 'artificial intelligence smart glasses' in a manner analogous to existing cell phone restrictions. Governor JB Pritzker's decision on signing the bill is pending. If enacted, the law would impose fines starting at $75 for a first offense, escalating to $150 for repeat violations. Crashes involving smart glass use resulting in severe injury or death would incur a minimum fine of $1,000.

This legislative move arrives as smart glasses, including those developed by tech giants like Google and Apple, gain traction. Meta has recently faced scrutiny over its facial recognition software for its Meta Glasses. The governor, who has a varied stance on technology policy, will have 60 days to review the bill once it is formally delivered. His office stated he will "carefully review everything that comes across his desk." The potential ban reflects growing concerns about new technologies and driver safety.