Subcommittee approves tougher penalties for driving without a license

A Senate Transportation subcommittee voted to report S59 favorably after members heard testimony about the frequency and enforcement challenges of driving without a valid license.

Senators Bennett and Rice sponsored S59, which raises penalties for driving without a license. Under the bill as described to the committee, a first offense would be punishable by a $300 fine or up to 30 days in jail or both (current law: $50–$100 or up to 30 days); a second offense would be $600 and up to 45–60 days (current law: $500 or up to 45 days); and a third or subsequent offense could carry a $1,000 fine and a minimum of 45 days up to six months in confinement or home detention under the Home Detention Act.

David Owens summarized the changes in the statutory penalties. Major Stankus of the Highway Patrol testified about enforcement realities, describing frequent encounters with drivers who lack valid licenses or drive while suspended. Major Stankus said law enforcement agencies are working to reduce repeat offenders and that officers increasingly use incarceration when practical to prevent people from driving again immediately after release. "We are attempting to address it internally as well. But it is every day," Major Stankus said.

The bill retains an existing provision allowing a summary court to dismiss a charge if the defendant presents proof of a valid license on or before the court date. Committee members discussed practical enforcement issues such as on‑scene custody and whether defendants can arrange a ride home rather than being jailed.

After brief discussion, the committee voted for a favorable report. No roll‑call vote was recorded in the transcript; the chair called for yeas and the ayes prevailed.