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House approves change allowing some insulin-using drivers to retain commercial licenses
Summary
The House passed Senate Bill 51 to let the state Driver’s License Medical Advisory Board set standards enabling some insulin-treated diabetics to continue holding a commercial driver’s license, after sponsors said federal approvals were obtained and no federal funds would be jeopardized.
The House voted to pass Senate Bill 51 on March 5, 1997, a measure that directs the state Driver’s License Medical Advisory Board to establish standards allowing people with diabetes who are managing the condition (including those on insulin, under a doctor’s care) to retain or qualify for a commercial driver’s license when it is safe to do so.
Floor sponsor remarks outlined that the bill allows the state board to set standards and that federal clearance had been obtained (sponsors cited conversations with U.S. DOT representatives and federal members of Congress). Representatives who supported the bill recounted constituent stories illustrating why the change mattered for working CDL holders who had lost licensure following insulin treatment changes. The bill passed the House with a recorded tally in the transcript of 65 yes votes and 1 no vote.
Next steps: SB51 will be returned to the Senate for signature per the usual concurrence process.
