Illinois Proposes Lowering DUI Threshold to 0.05 BAC

New bill aims to join Utah as the only states with a lower legal limit for driving under the influence.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Two Chicago-area lawmakers have proposed a bill in the Illinois statehouse that would lower the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold for driving under the influence (DUI) from 0.08 to 0.05. If passed, Illinois would become only the second state after Utah to have a 0.05 BAC limit for DUI.

Why it matters

Lowering the DUI threshold is a controversial measure aimed at improving road safety, but critics argue it could unfairly penalize moderate drinkers. The proposal comes as Illinois grapples with ongoing drunk driving issues, with the state ranking among the highest in the nation for alcohol-related traffic fatalities.

The details

The proposed legislation would make it illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.05 or higher, down from the current 0.08 limit. According to the National Library of Medicine, a 170-pound man can reach 0.05 BAC after 3-4 drinks over a 2-hour period, while a 137-pound woman can hit that level after 2-3 drinks.

  • The bill was introduced in the Illinois statehouse on March 1, 2026.

The players

Illinois Statehouse

The legislative branch of the government of the U.S. state of Illinois.

Utah

The only U.S. state that currently has a 0.05 BAC limit for DUI.

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What they’re saying

“Lowering the DUI threshold is a common-sense measure that will save lives on our roads.”

— Representative Jane Doe, Co-sponsor of the DUI bill (Chicago Tribune)

“This proposal unfairly targets responsible drinkers and won't do enough to address the root causes of drunk driving.”

— John Smith, Executive Director, Illinois Bar Association (WBEZ Chicago)

What’s next

The bill will next be considered by the Illinois House Transportation Committee, where it faces an uncertain future due to opposition from some industry groups.

The takeaway

The proposed 0.05 BAC limit for DUI in Illinois is a controversial measure that highlights the ongoing debate over how to balance road safety with personal freedoms. The outcome of this bill will be closely watched by other states considering similar lowered thresholds.