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Minutes for SB143 - Committee on Transportation
Short Title
Allowing certain individuals to be eligible for restricted driving privileges.
Minutes Content for Fri, Feb 22, 2019
Chairperson Petersen opened the hearing for SB 143. Mr. Siebers explained the bill creates new provisions for drivers whose licenses have been restricted or revoked allowing that person to be eligible to apply for a new license after 60 days. Some restrictions would allow drivers to go to and from employment or school, probation or parole meetings, and religious services.
Senator Faust-Goudeau spoke as a proponent of SB 143, saying that individuals whose licenses have been suspended or revoked and have unpaid fines would be permitted to receive a restricted license. Payment of a $25 fee upon application and approval would allow an individual to obtain insurance and drive legally (Attachment 1).
Peter Ninemire, Owner Director of The Caring Center of Wichita, explained the importance of providing a method by which individuals whose licenses have been suspended to have opportunity to pay fines incrementally and obtain a restricted driver's license. He noted funds received from unpaid fines enhance the economy and provide incentive for law-abiding citizens to have employment and become tax payers (Attachment 2).
Melissa Lubbers, speaking as a proponent of SB 143, advocated for changes in the bill that could benefit individuals impacted by the licensing statute. She commented on how the poverty level of some citizens negates their ability to pay lump sum fines accrued in minor driving infractions. Ms. Lubbers cited two examples of citizens who were cited because of minor infractions. She said SB 143 provides a way for individuals to more adequately address the citation (Attachment 3).
Written-only testimony supporting SB 143:
- Brandon Johnson, Council Member, Wichita City Council - District I (Attachment 4).
- Maaskelah Thomas, PhD, Transformative Concepts Consulting Group, Sedgwick County, Kansas (Attachment 5).
- Reverend Joanna Harader, Pastor, Peace Mennonite Church, Lawrence, Kansas (Attachment 6).
- Dominique R. Walker, Security Transport Services, Topeka, Kansas (Attachment 7).
- David H. Wilkinson, Wilkinson Consulting Group, Lawrence, Kansas (Attachment 8).
Response to members' questions were answered:
- No DUI infractions are to be included in the bill (Senator Faust-Godeau).
- Moving violations are the primary concern of this bill (Assistant Revisor Adam Siebers).
- Medical issues covered in KSA 217-8-273 (Kent Selk, Division of Vehicles).
The hearing on SB 143 was closed.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled for March 6, 2019.
