IL SB1220

Requires persons under age 16 to wear an approved protective bicycle helmet while operating or riding as a passenger on a bicycle on highways, multipurpose public paths, or other public rights-of-way.

Requires bicycle passengers who weigh less than 40 pounds or are less than 40 inches in height to be properly seated in and secured to a separate bicycle safety seat.

Makes it unlawful for parents or legal guardians of children under age 12 to permit violations of helmet and safety seat requirements, subject to a civil penalty not exceeding $2.

Allows courts to waive the civil penalty for a first offense within 12 months upon proof that the violator purchased or obtained an appropriate helmet or safety seat since the violation date.

Directs law enforcement to issue warnings rather than make arrests for violations, except for parent or guardian violations, and prohibits failure to wear a helmet or use a safety seat from being admissible as evidence in civil actions.