IL SB3151

Requires safety education instruction in grades 1-8 (one class period weekly) and driver education courses in grades 9-12 at schools maintaining those grades.

Mandates driver education curriculum include Illinois Vehicle Code chapters 11-16, distracted driving instruction, law enforcement traffic stop procedures, and special hazards at construction zones and railroad crossings, with new emphasis on worker safety in highway construction and maintenance zones.

Specifies high school driver education course minimum of 30 clock hours classroom instruction and 6 clock hours behind-the-wheel instruction; allows partial distance learning only with case-by-case approval from school administration, student's driver education teacher, and parent/guardian.

Permits school districts to contract with commercial driver training schools if the school board approves during a public hearing and verifies the school holds a Secretary of State license and all instructors hold valid teaching licenses.

Sets student participation fee at maximum $50 (waivable for unable students) or up to $250 with board resolution after public hearing; fees must be deposited in separate driver education fund used solely for State Board-approved programs.