Bill discussed for driving suspensions

BISMARCK — Lawmakers are discussing a bill that would allow an individual with a suspended drivers license to obtain a temporary license sooner from the Department of Transportation.

Under House Bill 1027, the DOT would be able to issue a temporary license after one year’s suspension, rather than the current two-year requirement, provided the individual shows proof of financial responsibility, proof of required treatment attendance and proof of compliance with the 24-7 alcohol program if required to participate.

The bill came out of the 2012 Interim Commission on Alternatives to Incarceration, where judges on the commission said courts are seeing a significant more number of cases of people driving with a suspended license then they should.

A driver with a temporary license would only be able to use it during normal working hours and to drive to treatments programs and take family to school or for medical treatment.

The bill passed the House with a unanimous vote and was heard Thursday in the Senate Transportation Committee where no action was taken.

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