HB0397 Summary

• Transfers authority to issue special permits for oversized and overweight vehicles from local authorities to the Department of Transportation only, with permits valid on both State and local highways.

• Eliminates local authorities' ability to independently issue excess size and weight permits for vehicles on highways under their jurisdiction.

• Changes language in Section 15-111 to specify that only the Department issues permits for vehicles exceeding weight limits, removing references to local authority permit issuance.

• Makes conforming changes throughout the Illinois Vehicle Code to reflect centralized permit authority under the Department rather than shared authority with local governments.

• Takes effect January 1, 2026.