Oct. 14, 2022—Putnam County in Illinois has voted to prohibit the use of compression brakes on IL Route 71.
According to Shaw Local, the vote conducted by the Putnam County Board was unanimous. Compression brakes, otherwise known as "jake brakes", are a braking mechanism that can be found on some diesel engines. When employed, they can make a loud noise.
IL Route 71 is a state-controlled highway. Authorized signage will be placed in the zones that prohibit "jake brake" usage. Local Sheriff Kevin Doyle said the police department will not enforce this new measure until the signage is installed.
