Connecticut Senate Bill SB00184

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/13
• Refer: 1/17/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Driving History Records Of Motor Vehicle Operators Whose Licenses Were Suspended For Violating Certain Restrictions Placed On Drivers Who Are Sixteen Or Seventeen Years Of Age.

Summary

SB00184 seeks to amend existing state statutes regarding the driving history records of young motor vehicle operators, specifically those aged sixteen and seventeen. The primary provision of this bill is to require the Department of Motor Vehicles to expunge records of license suspensions that occurred due to violations of restrictions placed on these young drivers. This modification would become effective once the individual turns eighteen, granted that the violations did not result in personal injury to any third party. The bill aims to alleviate the long-term impact of early driving infractions on young adults concerning their ability to obtain automobile insurance. The intent behind SB00184 is to assist young drivers in securing more favorable insurance rates and provide them with a clean slate once they reach adulthood. Supporters of the bill argue that maintaining these records can have detrimental effects on young people's opportunities, especially as they transition to full adult responsibilities. By removing these records, the bill essentially promotes a more forgiving approach toward the mistakes made by teens in their formative driving years. However, the bill has generated discussions about the implications of expunging such records. Critics may raise concerns that it could undermine accountability among young drivers, who may not fully comprehend the consequences of their actions when behind the wheel. There are also calls for ensuring that the bill's implementation does not unintentionally encourage reckless driving behaviors among teenagers. If enacted, SB00184 would change the landscape of driving regulations relating specifically to young operators. While it is designed to aid young people's financial circumstances in navigating car insurance, the potential shift in perspective on accountability for traffic violations necessitates a careful balance between supporting young drivers and maintaining responsible driving standards.