Senate Bill 1193 Summary

• Allows individuals with ventricular assist devices (VADs) to obtain or retain a driver's license if at least 180 days have passed since device installation and a physician certifies they can safely operate a motor vehicle.

• Prohibits the Secretary of State from denying a license based solely on physical disability or disease related to VAD installation or the medical condition requiring the device.

• Requires reinstatement of driving privileges for persons whose licenses were restricted, suspended, or revoked due to VAD-related physical disabilities, provided physician approval is obtained and no other disqualifying conditions exist.

• Defines "ventricular assist device" as a medical device that partially or completely replaces the function of a failing heart.

• Applies these VAD provisions to both initial license applications (Section 303) and license reexamination/suspension procedures (Section 320).