7/10/03-Gov. Mike Foster has signed a bill to punish teen drivers who get in trouble at school.
HB1686 mandates that teens lose their driving privileges for up to a year for three major offenses: attacking teachers or school employees, sale or possession of drugs, alcohol and “other illegal substances,” and possession of a firearm.
The new law, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2004, applies to public and private school students age 14 to 18.
Students can regain the license after six months by showing “exemplary … behavior” at school and avoiding other violations of school policies. The student would have to pay a $60 reinstatement fee.

6/18/03-The House gave final approval to a bill June 16 that would punish teen drivers who get in big trouble at school.
Under HB1686, public and private school students age 14 to 18 who are expelled or suspended for 10 days or more could lose their driving privileges for a year.
The three major offenses mandating the loss of the licenses: attacking teachers or school employees, sale or possession of drugs, alcohol and “other illegal substances,” and possession of a firearm.
The Senate amended the bill by limiting the situations in which a student can be expelled or suspended from school and lose the license. It was those changes that the House approved.
It now heads to the governor, who is expected to sign it.

5/21/03-The House passed a bill that punishes teen drivers who get in trouble at school.
Under HB1686, sponsored by Speaker Charlie DeWitt, D-Lecompte, public and private school students who are expelled or suspended for 10 days or more would lose their driving privileges for a year.
In the bill, such offenses as carrying firearms; “sale or possession of drugs, alcohol or any other illegal substance”; and fighting could result in the loss of driving privileges.
Dewitt’s measure requires a school’s principal or headmaster to notify the state when a student is expelled or suspended for 10 days or more so the state can void the license.
The student can regain the license after six months by showing “exemplary … behavior” at school and avoiding other violations of school policies. The student would have to pay a $60 reinstatement fee.
The measure, which passed the House 84-13 on May 12, has been sent to the Senate for consideration. For bill status, call 1-800-256-3793. In Baton Rouge, call (225) 342-2456.