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Committee approves bill cutting seizure-free driving requirement from 12 to 6 months
Summary
A Senate committee voted to pass SB 540, which would shorten the mandatory seizure‑free interval for driving in Arkansas from 12 months to a maximum of 6 months, aligning state policy with recent clinical guidance and most other states, proponents said.
A Senate committee voted to pass Senate Bill 540 on a voice vote after hearing from a clinician who said the current 12‑month seizure‑free requirement unduly limits independence for people with epilepsy.
The bill, sponsored by members of the Senate and carried in committee by a presenter who said he worked with state lawmakers and cosponsors on the measure, would allow the Arkansas Office of Driver Services to use a maximum six‑month seizure‑free interval in driver evaluations. Supporters said the change aligns Arkansas with the American Academy of Neurology and the American Epilepsy Society and with the majority of other states.
Olivia Cox, a nurse practitioner who said she specializes in adult neurology, told the committee the current rule forces patients to endure “difficult conversations” and can cost them jobs and independence. “The goal of this bill, SB 540, is to align Arkansas state law with evidence based practice regarding driving restrictions in persons who have suffered from a seizure,” Cox said. She said clinical evidence and recent professional guidance support a three‑ to six‑month interval for many patients and that 38 other states use six months or less.
Cox and the bill sponsor also told the committee that longer mandatory reporting and longer seizure‑free intervals can increase unlicensed driving by people who withhold information from clinicians. Committee members asked no questions during the presentation; a motion to report the bill do pass was made and seconded on the floor and the chair announced the bill passed out of committee.
The committee record shows a motion to do pass was offered by Senator Scott and seconded by Senator Bryant; the committee approved the measure by voice vote. No roll‑call tally was recorded in the transcript.
SB 540 would change administrative practice at the Office of Driver Services; the committee did not discuss any specific implementation timeline or fiscal note during the hearing. Proponents said the change is intended to balance public safety with the rights and quality of life of people with seizure disorders.
Supporters asked that the bill be advanced; no opposition appeared before the committee.
Votes at a glance: SB 540 — Motion to report do pass (mover: Senator Scott; second: Senator Bryant); outcome: approved (voice vote).
