Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SSB1154

Introduced
2/14/23  
Introduced
2/14/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of persons issued an instruction permit who are employed, and providing penalties.(See SF 449.)

Impact

The enactment of SSB1154 would alter the existing framework governing licensed adolescent drivers, who typically must be supervised at all times while driving. By permitting independent driving for work purposes, lawmakers aim to improve access to job opportunities for teens, particularly for those who may not have reliable transportation. This legislative change is expected to ease some restrictions on young drivers while ensuring compliance with work permit regulations.

Summary

SSB1154 proposes an amendment to Iowa's driving laws targeting the driving privileges of individuals holding an instruction permit who are employed. The bill allows these permit holders, aged 14 to 18, to operate a vehicle independently to and from work without needing an accompanying driver. This is confined to specific hours, namely between 5:00 a.m. and 12:30 a.m., and within a 25-mile radius from their residence to their place of employment. The individual must also possess a valid work permit as stipulated by Iowa's child labor laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include safety concerns addressed by various stakeholders, who argue that younger drivers may not possess the experience needed to drive alone, especially during early morning or late-night hours. Critics fear that this change could lead to increased road hazards and accidents involving inexperienced drivers. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the balance between providing employment opportunities to youth and ensuring appropriate oversight for their safety on the road.

Companion Bills

IA SF449

Replaced by A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of persons issued an instruction permit who are employed, and providing penalties.(Formerly SSB 1154.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF574

A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of unsupervised persons issued a special minor's restricted driver's license, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HF 202.)

IA SF37

A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of unsupervised persons issued a special minor's restricted driver's license, and making penalties applicable.

IA HF202

A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of unsupervised persons issued a special minor's restricted driver's license, and making penalties applicable.(See HF 574.)

IA SF381

A bill for an act relating to youth employment and providing penalties.

IA HF2113

A bill for an act relating to the driving privileges of persons under the age of eighteen who were previously issued a special minor's restricted license that was subsequently suspended, and including applicability provisions.(See HF 2628.)

IA SF147

A bill for an act relating to wage payment collection issues arising between employers and employees, providing penalties and remedies, and including effective date provisions.

IA SF2046

A bill for an act relating to wage payment collection issues arising between employers and employees, providing penalties and remedies, and including effective date provisions.

IA HF675

A bill for an act requiring employers to provide employees with meal periods and rest periods and providing penalties.

IA HSB64

A bill for an act relating to the use of an electronic device in a voice-activated or hands-free mode while driving, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable.(See HF 827.)

IA HF827

A bill for an act relating to the use of an electronic device in a voice-activated or hands-free mode while driving, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HSB 64.)

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MS HB671

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TX SB2225

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AZ HB2953

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AZ SB1458

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AZ SB1614

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IN HB1041

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IA HF474

A bill for an act relating to the treatment of animals other than agricultural animals by providing for the inspection or monitoring of commercial establishments by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and making penalties applicable.