summary
Introduced
01/23/2025
01/23/2025
In Committee
02/11/2026
02/11/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. Defines "relay box". Provides that no person may possess a relay box in this State except for: (1) a mechanic; (2) a new vehicle dealer or used vehicle dealer licensed under the Code; (3) a locksmith licensed under the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004; (4) a repossession agent; or (5) a State or local law enforcement officer. Provides that a person who commits a violation of the new provisions is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Effective immediately.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Illinois Vehicle Code to address the possession of "relay boxes," which are electronic devices designed to capture signals from car key fobs to unlock and start vehicles without the actual key. The bill defines a relay box and restricts its possession to specific authorized individuals, including mechanics, licensed vehicle dealers, licensed locksmiths, repossession agents, and state or local law enforcement officers. For any person not falling into these categories, possessing a relay box would be considered a Class A misdemeanor, which is a criminal offense that can potentially result in up to one year in jail and/or a fine. The purpose of this legislation appears to be preventing potential vehicle theft by limiting access to technology that could be used to illegally access and steal vehicles by circumventing traditional key-based security measures. The bill becomes effective immediately upon enactment, signaling the state's urgent concern about this potential security vulnerability.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Judiciary - Criminal Committee Hearing (17:00:00 3/18/2026 Room D-1 Stratton Building) (on 03/18/2026)
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