Data from the Illinois Secretary of State's office show that more than 5,000 Illinoisans who were convicted of drunken driving four times and had their licenses revoked could legally drive again under a new state law.
Gov. Bruce Rauner last month signed the measure, which would provide restricted permits if drivers prove they are drug and alcohol free for at least three years. More than half of the 5,085 eligible drivers live in the Chicago area.
The Illinois Secretary of State's office is preparing rules to issue the permits. Those who obtain a permit must operate a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device.
Democratic state Rep. Elaine Nekritz of Northbrook says she sponsored the measure because she believes people "can turn their lives around."
