It is expected that Indiana Legislation will consider a bill to provide residents who can’t provide proof of identity and lawful status in the United States to apply for a Driving Record Card or a Driving Record Card Learner’s Permit to obtain driving privileges. 

House Bill 1195 was introduced in 2022 and would have provided that an individual who is an Indiana resident and cannot provide proof of identity and lawful status in the United States may apply for a driving record card learner’s permit and driving record card to obtain driving privileges. The summary states It “provides that a driving record card learner’s permit and driving record card may not be used for federal identification or any other federal purpose. Provides that a driving record card learner’s permit and driving record card may not be used for the purpose of voting or employment verification. Requires an individual who holds a driving record card learner’s permit or driving record card and operates a motor vehicle to verify and continuously maintain financial responsibility on any motor vehicle the holder operates in the amount required by law. Provides that the bureau of motor vehicles may not disclose certain information unless presented with a lawful court order or judicial warrant. Makes conforming amendments. Makes technical corrections.”  1195 was referred to the Committee on Roads and Transportation on January 6, 2022 but didn’t move any further.  It’s anticipated that a similar bill will be introduced in 2023 and support is being sought from communities across the state. 

During Tuesday evening’s Plymouth Common Council meeting, members were asked to consider a resolution supporting the proposed legislation. 

The council chambers were standing room only and citizens were there in favor and there were those who had questions and concerns. 

Councilman Don Ecker appeared on Wednesday’s “What’s Your Opinion Show” on WTCA and said that 18 states and the District of Columbia have already passed similar bills.  He also said that Plymouth is the 8th community in the state to pass a resolution in support of the proposed 2023 bill. 

The resolution passed says that an informational meeting held on October 23rd at St. Michael’s Catholic School was very well attended.  It also said the City of Plymouth was presented with a petition with nearly 300 signatures of those supporting such legislation.  The resolution states that implementation of the program would increase public safety by assuring the adequate training certification and insurance of more drivers on our roads. 

The purpose and intent of the resolution was to endorse a similar solution and to encourage the Indiana General Assembly to adopt appropriate legislation in the coming year.

The resolution passed with five YES votes and two members absent from the meeting.