HB3149 Summary

• Extends Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) validity from 180 days to 12 months, removing the option for renewal without retaking tests.

• Adds new Section 6-508.5 establishing procedures for checking the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's drug and alcohol clearinghouse when issuing or renewing CDLs and CLPs, with the Secretary of State required to cancel licenses for applicants prohibited from operating commercial vehicles.

• Adds definition of "drug and alcohol clearinghouse" to Section 6-500 and defines "fatality" as death resulting from a motor vehicle crash instead of accident.

• Modifies railroad-highway grade crossing violation provisions in Sections 11-1201, 11-1202, and 11-1425 to establish separate requirements for commercial motor vehicles, including requirements to slow down and check tracks are clear, stop before crossing, and ensure sufficient space before entering crossings.

• Eliminates requirement for "written or" notification in insurance certificate provisions (Sections 7-315 and 7-318), allowing electronic submission only.