SPRINGFIELD - A plan by Secretary of State Jesse White to toughen teen driving laws apparently doesn't go far enough for two state lawmakers.

Under a proposal introduced recently by state Rep. Roger Eddy, R-Hutsonville, new drivers would be subject to drug testing when they go to get their driver's licenses.

A separate measure backed by state Rep. David Leitch, R-Peoria, would require teen drivers to put signs on their vehicles identifying them as rookies whenever they hit the road.

Both initiatives come as traffic deaths among teenagers have been put in the spotlight. White earlier this week proposed a set of reforms aimed at putting better prepared drivers behind the wheel.

White's plan would lengthen training times for young drivers and put more restrictions on nighttime driving.

His proposal, based on the recommendations of a task force that met last year, also would toughen restrictions on passengers, as well as require drivers younger than 18 who are ticketed for traffic violations to appear before a judge with a parent or guardian to receive court supervision.

White's plan has drawn support from state Sen. Bill Brady, R-Bloomington.

"This is a serious issue that needs serious attention. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this legislation and look forward to working with the secretary to make Illinois the best state in the nation when it comes to preparing our youth for the privileges of driving in their later years," said Brady.

Eddy's drug testing proposal, which isn't part of White's initiative, is the latest incarnation of legislation he floated last year. It required teens to take a drug test before getting a learner's permit.

The proposal stalled last year when opponents argued that a required test presumes guilt among teens. There were also concerns about the cost of requiring drug testing.

Eddy, a school superintendent, said he believes the measure could be approved if the law requires random drug testing.

Leitch's plan, meanwhile, calls for the state to design some kind of sign or placard that can be attached to vehicles being driven by young drivers.

The proposal is aimed at letting other motorists know that there is a new driver heading their way.

"It just seemed like a common sense idea to me," said Leitch.

Leitch said he hopes his proposal is rolled into White's larger initiative when the spring legislative session gets rolling next month.

White spokesman Dave Druker expressed doubt either one of the proposals would be considered as part of the overall teen driving package.

"We would have some problems with that," said Druker.

On the drug testing measure, for example, Druker said requiring drug tests could slow down the time it takes for driver's to get their licenses.

The sign legislation is House Bill 408. The drug testing legislation is House Bill 262.