Louisiana Senate Bill SB164

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11
• Report Pass: 5/23/11
• Engrossed: 5/31/11
• Refer: 6/1/11
• Report Pass: 6/6/11
• Enrolled: 6/22/11
• Chaptered: 6/28/11
• Passed: 6/28/11

Caption

Requires currently licensed or contracted third-party testers administering driver's education courses to be licensed or contracted to administer on-road driving skills tests; requires such third-party testers to administer such test; and requires driver education courses or "prelicensing training courses" before issuance of most first-time driver's licenses (8/15/11) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG RV See Note)

Impact

The implementation of SB 164 is expected to tighten the requirements for driving schools and instructors engaged in teaching new drivers. By enforcing regulations that include competencies for third-party testers and requiring courses that encompass crucial topics such as organ and tissue donation, this legislation seeks to improve the overall quality of driver education across the state. The focus on certified instruction and practical assessment may lead to a decrease in traffic violations and accidents involving new drivers.

Summary

Senate Bill 164 aims to enhance driver education standards in Louisiana by requiring that currently licensed or contracted third-party testers who administer driver's education courses must also be licensed to conduct on-road driving skills tests. This bill mandates that applicants for most first-time driver's licenses complete a driver education course or a prelicensing training course. The objective is to ensure that young and first-time drivers receive adequate preparation before obtaining their licenses, thereby potentially improving road safety.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 164 appears to be positive among proponents who emphasize the importance of thorough driver education in promoting safety. Supporters argue that the bill will create a more competent cohort of new drivers, as it addresses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. However, some concerns have been raised regarding whether these additional requirements might impose a financial burden on training programs and whether they could deter potential new drivers from obtaining their licenses.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention include the logistical implications of implementing these regulatory changes for existing driving schools and the potential impact on students. Critics may contend that the new requirements could lead to increased costs for training agencies, which may be passed on to students, thereby affecting access to driver education. Additionally, there are questions about how effectively the state can monitor compliance among private driving school operators and ensure that they meet the new standards set forth by the bill.