Education - Jobs That Require Driving - Requirements (Drivers Education for Good Jobs Act of 2022)
Impact
The bill mandates the establishment of a statewide career and technical education pathway specifically aimed at assisting high school students in preparing for driving-related careers. This pathway includes provisions for students to obtain their standard driver’s license at 16, as well as guidance for completing commercial or specialty license courses before graduating. The Career and Technical Education Committee will be responsible for setting annual goals to track the number of students achieving the necessary licenses, effectively promoting both education and workforce readiness in the driving sector.
Summary
House Bill 750, titled the 'Drivers Education for Good Jobs Act of 2022,' seeks to enhance career preparation for high school students by providing a structured pathway into driving careers. This includes enabling county boards of education to authorize employees to transport public school students, given specific qualifications such as age and driving experience. The bill is designed to address a pressing need for skilled drivers across various sectors, including transportation of buses, trucks, and heavy equipment.
Contention
While the bill has broad support as a means of preparing students for essential jobs, it raises questions about the efficacy of such educational pathways and the actual demand in the labor market. Some critics may voice concerns over the feasibility of setting and meeting annual goals for student licensing and whether the resources allocated for these programs will adequately support the intended outcomes. Additionally, ensuring safety in the transportation of students by non-traditional drivers may also become a point of discussion among stakeholders.