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Panel advances bill allowing juvenile judges to suspend driving privileges for adjudicated truancy cases
Summary
HB 21,46 would give juvenile judges authority to suspend or place a hold on a student's driver's license for up to one year following adjudication for unlawful absence; committee approved the measure after members asked about discretion and whether judges already possess such authority.
Representative Renee Jones explained that HB 21,46 would add suspension of driving privileges or a hold on a driver’s license to the juvenile judge’s toolbox for students adjudicated for unlawful absence. The sponsor said judges would have discretion and that the remedy is discretionary, not automatic, and that judges currently do not have the authority without this statute.
Committee members raised concerns about students who serve as family drivers or work to support households; the sponsor said such factors would be left to judicial discretion. One member asked whether judges already had similar authority and legal counsel confirmed they do not have this specific power without the legislation. The bill passed committee by recorded vote (15 ayes, 1 nay, 1 present‑not‑voting) and moves to calendar and rules.
