FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 11, 2023
Sen. Marko Liias’ legislation to improve safety among young drivers was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee Thursday.
Senate Bill 5583 requires the Department of Licensing to develop an implementation plan to expand requirements for driver training education for people ages 18 to 24. It is part of a package of bills introduced this session aimed at increasing traffic safety, following a report released by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission that showed 745 people were killed in crashes in 2022.
The plan will be presented to the Legislature by October 1, 2024 and looks at best ways to require expanding drivers’ education for younger drivers. This requirement is targeted to be implemented by July 1, 2026. It will include considerations of what courses will satisfy new requirements, an assessment of resources needed to ensure enough courses are available, address accessibility concerns regarding obtaining drivers education, and more.
“This bill is a critical step forward in reducing the growing number of traffic fatalities and injuries across Washington,” Sen. Liias (D-Everett) said. “Young drivers are the most likely group to get involved into a car accident, and this legislation focuses on understanding and improving capacity to make sure they are getting the education they need to drive on Washington’s roads safely.”
SB 5583 goes into effect on July 23.
