Signed by Governor JB Pritzker

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

A vote to pass a bill that authorizes local governments to regulate the use of "Gita" personal carrying robotic devices.

Highlights:

• Defines a “mobile carrying device” as an electrically powered device that (Sec. 1):

• Is operated by a mobile carrying device operator on sidewalks and crosswalks and intended primarily for transporting personal property;

• Weighs less than 90 pounds, excluding cargo;

• Has a maximum speed of 12.5 miles per hour;

• Is equipped with a technology to transport personal property with the active monitoring of a property owner; and

• Is primarily designed to remain within 10 feet of the personal property owner.

• Expands the authority of local authorities, with respect to streets and highways under their jurisdiction and within the reasonable exercise of the police power, to include regulating the operation of mobile carrying devices (Sec. 11).

• Authorizes the operation of a mobile carrying device on a sidewalk or crosswalk as long as (Sec. 11):

• The mobile carrying device operates within the framework of local ordinances established by the local governing authority;

• A personal property owner is actively monitoring the operation and navigation of the mobile carrying device; and

• The mobile carrying device has a braking system that lets the device come to a controlled stop.

• Prohibits a mobile carrying device from (Sec. 11):

• Failing to follow laws concerning traffic or pedestrian control devices and signals;

• Unreasonably interfering with pedestrians or traffic;

• Transporting a person; or

• Operating on a street or highway with the exception of crosswalks.

• Requires the operator of a mobile carrying device to make sure that the mobile carrying device yields the right of way to pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks (Sec. 11).

• Prohibits mobile carrying devices from being used to transport hazardous materials (Sec. 11).

• Requires a mobile carrying device operator to register with the Secretary of State (Sec. 11).

• Establishes that a violation of this act is a petty offense (Sec. 11).

Full Bill Text