HB29 - Deputy Hart Act Summary

• Requires persons under 18 to hold a Stage I learner's license for at least six months before applying for a Stage II restricted regular driver's license.

• Establishes Stage II restrictions on drivers age 16 or 17 with less than six months of licensure, prohibiting driving between midnight and 6:00 a.m. (with exceptions for work, school, religious events, emergencies, and hunting/fishing with valid license), operating with multiple passengers, and using nonessential handheld communication devices.

• Creates tiered penalties for Stage II license violations: first offense requires defensive driving school attendance; second or subsequent offense suspends Stage II privileges and requires reversion to Stage I learner's permit for six months, plus fine of $150-$350 and court costs.

• Imposes fines of $500 plus court costs on parents or legal guardians who knowingly allow children with Stage I or Stage II licenses to violate license restrictions; second or subsequent offense allows fines of $150-$350 plus court costs.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.