Drivers' license bill advances

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved legislation that would stop Minnesotans who are actively serving their country from losing their drivers’ licenses.

Dist. 22A Rep. Joe Schomacker, R-Luverne, supported the proposal.

“It’s sad to think that Minnesotans who are serving their country could have been punished when they are unable to maintain their drivers’ license,” Schomacker said.

As part of the legislation, the Minnesota driver’s license of an active duty soldier serving outside of the state, as well as the service member’s spouse, would remain valid for at least one full year following the soldier’s discharge, and until the person’s birthday a full four-years following the previous renewal if that is later.

Under current law, the veteran and spouse would only have 90 days to renew their driver’s licenses.

Schomacker said some members of the military are discharged but continue to work as civilians for several months on or around military bases. This bill will extend the grace period for renewing their drivers’ licenses without retaking tests.

Tags: news, legislture, politics, schomacker