Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF4939

Introduced
3/13/24  
Refer
3/13/24  
Refer
4/9/24  

Caption

Limited drivers' licenses for certain participants in treatment court establishment, requiring treatment court coordinators to provide certain information, providing for notification of termination from treatment court, and classifying data

Impact

The implementation of SF4939 will alter existing statutes regarding drivers' privileges, particularly for those with suspended or revoked licenses due to circumstances surrounding substance abuse. By establishing a path for recovery participants to regain some level of independence through driving, the bill emphasizes a rehabilitative approach to public safety rather than punitive measures alone. The law aims to balance the need for public safety with the necessity for individuals to maintain their treatment commitments, thus addressing broader issues of health and social justice in the state.

Summary

Bill SF4939 introduces limited drivers' licenses specifically for participants in treatment court programs. It aims to provide certain allowances for individuals whose participation in these programs may hinge on their ability to drive, thereby promoting attendance and compliance. This bill recognizes the unique circumstances of those undergoing treatment for substance use disorders and seeks to facilitate their integration into both the legal framework and social support systems. The legislation is designed to establish criteria under which the Department of Public Safety can issue limited licenses that allow individuals to fulfill essential personal or professional obligations while they participate in treatment programs.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SF4939 may revolve around the potential risk factors associated with allowing individuals previously charged with alcohol-related offenses to drive. Advocates for stricter measures may express concerns about public safety, fearing that permitting limited licensing could lead to incidents of impaired driving. Moreover, there are underlying debates about the classification of treatment court data and the balance of privacy for participants against the needs of law enforcement to access such information for monitoring compliance. Addressing these concerns will likely be crucial in the discussions ahead as stakeholders weigh the benefits of rehabilitation against community safety.

Companion Bills

MN HF4005

Similar To Limited drivers' licenses established for participants in treatment court, treatment court coordinators required to provide certain information, notification of termination from treatment court provided, and data classified.

Previously Filed As

MN HF4005

Limited drivers' licenses established for participants in treatment court, treatment court coordinators required to provide certain information, notification of termination from treatment court provided, and data classified.

MN SF2068

Driver's license revocations related to certain offenses length extension authorization; ignition interlock length of time participation modification; ignition interlock program participants completion of a treatment or rehabilitation program before reinstatement of full driving privileges requirement

MN SB1370

Modifies a provision relating to the establishment of treatment courts by providing for a mental health treatment court

MN HF2130

Public safety; various provisions modified relating to driver's license revocations, ignition interlock participation length, treatment or rehabilitation program, criminal penalties for participants who operate a vehicle not equipped with interlock device, criminal vehicular homicide offenders, judicial review of an extension, impounded and reissued license plate process, temporary driver's licenses, and criminal penalties; and money appropriated.

MN SF0160

Treatment courts-amendments-2.

MN HB0049

Treatment courts-amendments.

MN SF4950

Ignition interlock program participation requirement limitation for individuals whose driver's license is revoked, canceled or denied for an incident involving alcohol and establishing an intensive testing program for those whose driver's license is revoked, canceled, or denied for an incident involving a controlled substance or an intoxicating substance

MN HF3697

Requirement to participate in ignition interlock program limited to individuals whose driver's license is revoked, canceled, or denied for an incident involving alcohol; intensive testing program established for individuals whose license was revoked, canceled, or denied for a controlled substance or intoxicating substance related incident.

MN SB545

Veterans' treatment programs; creating the Oklahoma Veterans' Treatment Act; authorizing creation of veterans' treatment programs in district and municipal courts. Effective date.

MN SB545

Veterans' treatment programs; creating the Oklahoma Veterans' Treatment Act; authorizing creation of veterans' treatment programs in district and municipal courts. Effective date.

Similar Bills

MN HF4005

Limited drivers' licenses established for participants in treatment court, treatment court coordinators required to provide certain information, notification of termination from treatment court provided, and data classified.

MN SF3459

Substance abuse disorder treatment requirements modifications

MN HF3486

Substance use disorder treatment; licensed alcohol and drug counselors continuing education requirements modified, religious objections to placements in substance use disorder treatment programs allowed, comprehensive assessment requirements modified, courts or other placement authorities prohibited from compelling an individual to participate in religious elements of substance use disorder treatment, and report required.

MN SF271

Substance abuse counselors license requirements modifications and treatment requirements modifications

MN HF2575

Continuing education requirements for licensed alcohol and drug counselors modified, religious objections to placements in substance use disorder treatment programs allowed, comprehensive assessment requirements modified, and courts or other placement authorities prohibited from compelling an individual to participate in religious elements of substance use disorder treatment.

MN SF4399

Omnibus Human Services policy bill

MN HF4392

Human services; provisions modified relating to disability services, aging services, and substance use disorder services; Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services Act modified; subminimum wages phased out; blood-borne pathogen provisions expanded to all state-operated treatment programs; and expired reports removed.

MN SF3054

Omnibus Human Services appropriations