State Rep. Roger Eddy (R-Hutsonville) said the measure, HB 159, which calls for testing all license applicants under age 18, could prevent teens from using methamphetamine and other illicit drugs.

"There's a real methamphetamine problem in rural Illinois ... at that age when they're getting their learner's permits," said Eddy. "This (could provide) a reason to give to counter the pressure -- 'No, I want to be able to get my permit.'"

The Chicago Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union has not taken a formal position on the bill, but a spokesperson said the measure is troubling because it singles out a specific age group and suggests that they have fewer legal protections than others.

Applicants would be responsible for the $10-40 cost of the drug tests.

Some students and school administrators agree with Eddy, himself a school superintendent, that the measure would make kids think twice before using drugs.

"Everyone looks forward to getting their license, it's such a big deal. When you get your permit, that means new freedom, so maybe doing that would be an incentive to be more responsible," said Amanda Clessa, a freshman at Metro East Lutheran High School in Edwardsville, Ill.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for everyone, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, focused, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post personal requests for help or general promotions for your organization (Get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.