Connecticut Senate Bill SB00266

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/13
• Refer: 1/22/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Suspension Of A Motor Vehicle Operator's License For Unpaid Out-of-state Traffic Violations In A State With A Reciprocal Agreement With Connecticut.

Impact

If passed, this bill would prevent the automatic suspension of a Connecticut driver's license due to non-payment of traffic violations in another state, as long as the driver pays those fines before the enforcement of the suspension. Such a change could alleviate the financial burden on motorists who may be experiencing difficulty with multiple jurisdictions. It would promote responsible behavior by encouraging drivers to settle outstanding violations without the fear of further legal penalties in their home state.

Summary

SB00266 aims to amend current statutes regarding the suspension of a motor vehicle operator's license for individuals who have unpaid traffic violations in states that maintain a reciprocal agreement with Connecticut. The bill proposes that the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles should not suspend a Connecticut driver's license or impose any restoration fees on drivers who clear their traffic violations before the suspension date in the other state. This legislation is designed to provide a level of fairness to drivers who are proactively addressing their out-of-state traffic infractions.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to simplify the process for Connecticut drivers dealing with out-of-state penalties, it may also engender controversy among law enforcement and regulatory bodies. Some may argue that the legislation undermines the enforcement of traffic laws and could lead to a rise in violations if people believe they possess leniency in their home state's punishments. Critics could also raise concerns about the implications of the reciprocal agreements if they include states with significantly different enforcement policies.