Turner Bills to Reduce the Frequency of Suspended Driver’s Licenses Clears Senate

Trenton – A package of bills sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner, which would reduce the frequency of suspended driver’s licenses, cleared the Senate today.

The first bill, S-1080, would remove driver’s license suspension as a penalty related to convictions of certain crimes and offenses unrelated to one’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. The bill was released from the Senate by a vote of 29-10.

“A car and a license are a necessity in New Jersey and our laws should respect and reflect that. If a crime or violation has nothing to do with a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle there is no reason to suspend their license and in turn hinder their ability to make a living,” said Senator Turner (D-Hunterdon/Mercer). “On top of needing to drive to work due to our inadequate public transportation system, many jobs require a valid driver’s license just to apply. Because of this those entering or reentering the workforce may not even be eligible for work within walking distance.”

A second bill, S-1508, would eliminate the points-based Motor Vehicle Violations Surcharge System and the surcharges attached to unsafe driving violations following the retirement of bonds and debts tied to the surcharge system. The bill was released from the Senate by a vote of 39-0.

The final piece of the package, SCR-98, declares opposition to the federal mandate requiring states suspend driver’s licenses for drug related offenses. The resolution was released from the Senate by a vote of 24-12.