ILLINOIS SET TO BAN SMART GLASSES WHILE DRIVING

Illinois is poised to become the first US state to prohibit the wearing of smart glasses whilst driving, pending approval from Governor JB Pritzker. The legislation makes no distinction between smart glasses with displays and those without. Drivers found in breach of the rules could face fines of £59 or £118 for repeat offences, with the possibility of misdemeanor or felony charges if involved in a serious crash whilst wearing the glasses.

The bill has progressed further than similar proposals in other states, including New York, which have sought to limit smart glasses use whilst driving. The intention behind the legislation is to reduce driver distraction and improve road safety. Some commentators have acknowledged that smart glasses with displays could pose a genuine hazard, noting that activities such as texting or watching videos on the devices present obvious dangers to road users.

Some observers have raised concerns about the scope of the ban, questioning why non-display smart glasses—which offer no visual distraction and operate hands-free—have been included. Online discussion has centred on enforcement risks, with commentators suggesting the broad language could enable law enforcement to stop drivers on the basis of ordinary eyeglasses. The legislation awaits the governor's signature before becoming law.