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Panel advances restricted-license bill that limits driving to work, school and medical visits for a year
Summary
The subcommittee amended and advanced House Bill 1708, which creates a one-year nonrenewable restricted license for applicants unable to pass an English-language written driver's test, allows certain non-English written exams under conditions, and requires registration notices regarding immigration status.
The House Transportation Subcommittee voted Feb. 17 to send House Bill 1708 as amended to the full Transportation Committee after sponsor explanation, public testimony and legal clarification.
Representative Capley said HB 1708 requires registration or renewal notices that vehicle owners be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or temporary lawful residents; authorizes written examinations in certain non-English languages under conditions; and creates a one-year restricted license that permits travel to and from regular employment, medical appointments, and educational institutions during regular hours. He said the bill preserves the written portion of the driver exam and provides time for applicants to study English before taking the test in English.
A public commenter, Rick Colbert of Brentwood, testified against the bill and described how an English-only test could impose severe hardships on lawful residents who speak only Spanish, recounting the multi-generational Santiago family example. Legal counsel Joel Hayes clarified that the restricted license is limited to travel for work, school, and medical appointments; the subcommittee discussed potentially adding permissions for worship or other limited activities and the sponsor said he would be amenable to further conversation.
The subcommittee adopted an amendment (013261) clarifying registration notices and language and forwarded HB 1708 to the full Transportation Committee.
