Illinois state lawmakers have given the go ahead to legislation that would permit police to pullover and ticket drivers for not buckling up. The bill's passage would secure federal highway dollars for the state.

The Senate approved the measure May 15 by a 36-20 vote after the House voted in favor of the bill 67-46 in early April.

HB218, sponsored by Rep. Mark Beaubien Jr., R-Barrington, would create a primary law for seat belt enforcement. Under current law, police cannot ticket drivers for seat belt violations unless the driver is pulled over for another traffic violation.

However, the measure forbids police to search a vehicle, its contents or occupants solely for a seat belt infraction.

The bill now goes back to the House for approval of a Senate amendment setting the effective date if signed into law. If accepted, it will head to the governor.