Operators' And Chauffeurs' Licenses
The implementation of this legislation could significantly alter how driver education is delivered in Rhode Island. By enabling the online format, the bill is designed to meet the needs of students who may prefer or require remote learning options. Furthermore, it allows the state to evaluate the effectiveness of online driver education as a viable alternative to traditional classroom instruction, with the potential for long-term adoption if deemed successful.
House Bill H7583 aims to introduce a pilot program allowing approved providers of classroom driver education programs to offer a thirty-three (33) hour driver education course in an online and virtual format. This initiative is set to begin on October 1, 2022, and is intended to adapt to the growing demand for flexible education formats, particularly relevant during the ongoing shifts towards online learning influenced by recent global events. By permitting online delivery, the bill seeks to make driver education more accessible to a broader audience while maintaining educational standards.
Notably, the bill establishes a dedicated Online Driver Education Program Study Commission tasked with evaluating the pilot program. This commission will consist of representatives from various sectors, including AAA-Northeast, the community college of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island division of motor vehicles. Their findings and recommendations, due by December 31, 2023, will play a critical role in determining whether the online program should be made permanent. The sunset clause set for October 1, 2024, serves as a safeguard ensuring that the program undergoes thorough assessment, echoing concerns by some parties regarding the efficacy and quality of online driver education compared to traditional methods.