A bill requiring learner’s permit decals passes the Massachusetts House
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New drivers in Massachusetts would be required to show fellow motorists and police officers they are still learning the rules of the road if a bill that passed in the Massachusetts House over the weekend is turned into law.
The bill, known as “An act relative to student driver safety’’ (H. 3114), would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles to provide the holder of a learner’s permit with a “highly visible, reflective decal’’ to let other motorists know that a vehicle’s driver may still be learning the rules of the road.
The decal could be a sticker or a magnet and must be affixed to the driver’s vehicle in a manner recommended by the RMV.
According to language in the bill the RMV may charge a fee for the decal, but an amount is not outlined.
The bill forbids a learner’s permit holder from operating a vehicle without a decal that is visible to law enforcement. Violators may face fines of up to $50.
Learner’s permits are available to residents as young as age 16, allowing them to drive in the company of a licensed and experienced driver who is age 21 or older.
The bill was filed by Rep. RoseLee Vincent, a Revere Democrat.
The idea was first introduced to lawmakers by a Saugus resident whose teenaged son had a nerve-wracking experience with a tailgating truck driver, according to State House News Service.
The bill is now being considered by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.
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