Texas Senate Bill SB1077

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/8/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/20/09

Caption

Relating to driver education and driver's licensing requirements for minors.

Impact

A notable provision in the bill mandates that all school districts must offer a driver education and traffic safety course every academic year, providing inclusive education for minors seeking driver licenses. This could significantly increase student access to proper driving instruction, promoting safer roadway behaviors among new drivers. Furthermore, the law establishes data collection regarding the collision rates of students who complete these courses, with the expectation that it will inform better regulatory practices moving forward.

Summary

SB1077 focuses on updating the driver education and driver's licensing requirements, particularly for minors. The key changes involve the authority of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to access and utilize criminal history records to evaluate applicants for registrations related to controlled substances, chemical precursor permits, and driver education instructor certification. These measures aim to ensure that individuals engaging in activities associated with significant public safety risks possess the appropriate qualifications and histories necessary to conduct such actions safely.

Contention

There are potential points of contention around the bill, particularly concerning the requirement that a certified instructor must be present during behind-the-wheel instruction, especially for students aged under 18. Some stakeholders may argue that this stipulation could limit flexibility for parents or guardians teaching their children to drive, while others may defend it as a crucial safety measure. Additionally, the proposed consequences, such as the denial of licenses or renewals for those with certain driving infractions, add a layer of scrutiny that might provoke debate on fairness and enforcement.