SB 826 - This act conditions the issuance of driving privileges upon continued enrollment in school and progress towards graduation for anyone under the age of 18. Beginning August 28, 2004, a driver's license or learner's permit applicant under the age of 18 will need to present proof of graduation or enrollment and progress in school in order to receive or renew a license or permit. The act applies to students in home schools, and in vocational, alternative, and special education programs, as well as in public and nonpublic secondary schools and high school equivalence courses.

Schools (and the parent of a home-schooled child) must report withdrawals of students 15 years of age and older to the Department of Revenue, which will suspend the license of the withdrawing student 30 days after notification. Schools must also report when to the Department of Revenue that the student is not making satisfactory academic progress which is defined as not maintaining a cumulative GPA of 1.75 or higher.

The act defines withdrawal as 10 consecutive days or a total of 15 days of unexcused absence in a semester. Students who withdraw in order to transfer to another school and who provide proof of transfer within 5 days will not be reported. Emancipated minors may request a waiver from the local school board; the school board must decide if it is in the emancipated minor's best interests to have a license.
STEPHEN WITTE