MS HB295

Authorizes issuance of a hardship driver's license to persons whose licenses were suspended for non-compliance with child support orders, upon petition to chancery court and proof of employment hardship with clear and convincing evidence supported by independent documentation and a recommendation letter from the Mississippi Department of Human Services.

Establishes a $25.00 fee for hardship licenses and restricts their use to driving to work and religious services only; hardship licenses cannot be issued for commercial motor vehicle operation.

Requires hardship licenses to be visually distinct from regular driver's licenses and sets their term at four years.

Adds hardship license as a new type of operator's license under Mississippi Code Section 63-1-5 and amends Section 93-11-157 to allow hardship license provisions as an exception to standard license suspension procedures.

Effective date: July 1, 2018.