Arkansas House Bill HB1835

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Amend The Law Concerning The Suspension Of A Driver's License For The Inability To Drive After A Seizure.

Impact

By clarifying the regulations pertaining to the suspension of driving privileges, HB1835 seeks to directly impact the statutory framework governing the Office of Driver Services in Arkansas. Under the proposed law, drivers are subject to automatic suspension for a six-month period following a seizure unless they meet the outlined exceptions. This change is significant as it could potentially allow individuals with certain seizure conditions to maintain their ability to drive under monitored circumstances, thus addressing the concerns of road safety and personal mobility for affected individuals.

Summary

House Bill 1835 aims to amend the existing laws concerning the suspension of a driver’s license due to the inability to drive after experiencing a seizure. The bill introduces specifications regarding various types of seizures and defines exceptions under which a driver’s license may not be automatically suspended. Notably, the bill addresses both breakthrough seizures, which occur unexpectedly in those previously controlled, and isolated seizures, which are one-time occurrences linked to a specific medical condition. This targeted approach is intended to differentiate between seizure types and their implications on an individual’s driving capabilities.

Contention

The potential ramifications of HB1835 have sparked discussions regarding the balance between public safety and individual rights. Supporters argue that the bill adds necessary nuance to the existing laws, enabling those who have manageable seizure conditions to not face undue penalties that may negatively affect their lives, particularly affecting employment and daily activities. Conversely, some detractors may express concerns regarding the safety of permitting individuals with seizure histories to retain their driving privileges without stringent criteria to assess their fitness to drive post-seizure.