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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 9, 2023 11:09 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Anthony A. Bellmon and Rep. Jose Giral, Rep. Pat Gallagher, Rep. Tarik Khan |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Improving Access to Driver's Education |
| Obtaining a driver’s license is more than simply qualifying one’s ability to operate a vehicle. A driver’s license can provide a sense of independence and a way for one to apply for gainful employment. While not all jobs require a driver’s license, some jobs that can lift Pennsylvanians out of poverty do have such a requirement, particularly jobs in the trades, construction, and manufacturing field. Despite the many benefits of this type of instruction, the number of school districts offering free or low-cost driver’s education has drastically declined since the 1970s. This is because Pennsylvania law does not require school districts to offer driver’s education and provides only a small reimbursement to school districts that do so. Without support from the state, few schools can financially sustain a driver’s education program. That is why I am introducing a bill to support our schools in providing their students with greater access to free or low-cost driver’s education. My legislation would establish a grant for schools to provide a Pennsylvania Department of Education-approved driver’s education program to their students. It is vital that young drivers in our state have access to education that will allow them to drive safely and also create a pathway to sustainable employment. I ask that you sign on to this proposal to improve the availability of driver’s education programs around our Commonwealth. |