Deuter backs HB5081 to restrict speed camera zones, permit local speed limit adjustments

Rep. Martha Deuter (D-45th) supported HB5081 on May 31, 2026, during the 104th General Assembly. The bill, which aims to restrict where automated speed cameras can be used and grants local authority over speed limits, cleared the Illinois House with a 116-1 vote, according to the Illinois House.

The measure is officially titled "VEH CD-ALTER SPEED LIMITS," as described in the bill's official text.

The following is a summary based on the actual bill and may include clarification for better understanding of its contents.

Essentially, the bill limits automated speed camera operations to exclude areas where local ordinances reduced 30 mph zones without an engineering or traffic study. It enables municipalities and park districts to lower urban district speed limits by ordinance—without a study—to a range between 20 and 25 mph, to 10 mph for alleys, and in residence districts to 20 mph. Local governments can also increase urban speed limits up to 55 mph, provided a subsequent reduction is supported by a study. Posting new speed limit signs is required for any changes by park districts or municipalities.

The official action recorded for HB5081 was 'Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 House Concurs.'

Deuter completed a BSW at Ohio University in 1995.

Elected in 2025, Deuter, a Democrat, represents the 45th House District in the Illinois State House, having succeeded Jenn Ladisch Douglass.

Legislation in Illinois proceeds through a multi-step approval process that includes bill introduction, committee assessment, floor debate, and approval by votes in both chambers. Afterward, the bill goes to the governor, who may sign or veto it. The General Assembly follows a two-year cycle, with thousands of bills introduced each session, though only a segment ultimately becomes law.