5/7/03-A Senate panel failed to pass a proposal before the Legislature adjourned that would ease teen drivers onto the roadways by putting extra restrictions on them in their first year of driving.
HB226, sponsored by Rep. Kim Gillan, D-Billings, would require a three-month learning-permit period for drivers younger than 18 before they can get their licenses. Current law allows a license to anyone age 16 or over, without the three-month learning period.
The measure previously passed the House but was still in the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee when the regular session ended April 29.

3/28/03-The Montana Legislature is reviewing a proposal that would ease teen drivers onto the roadways by putting extra restrictions on them in their first year of driving.
HB226, sponsored by Rep. Kim Gillan, D-Billings, would require a three-month learning-permit period for drivers younger than 18 before they can get their licenses. Current law allows a license to anyone age 16 or over, without the three-month learning period.
The proposal would prohibit teens from being behind the wheel between midnight and 5:30 a.m., unless accompanied by an adult. In addition, they cannot have more than two other underage passengers in their vehicles at once, unless the passengers are immediate family members.
The bill exempts teens driving because of a hardship or for farm and ranch work. It also eliminates the night driving restriction for students headed to or from work, school or religious activities.
HB226 is in the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee. It already passed the House. For bill status, call (406) 444-4800.