Driver’s License Test in English

NEWS RELEASE    ---     From the Office of Representative Shelley Keeney - 156^th District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:	CONTACT:    Rep. Shelley Keeney
March 12, 2011	(573) 751-5912

Driver’s License Test in English

Even though economic development and job creation are on the top of many Missourians’ minds, there are several other issues we are working on in the state capitol. This week the Missouri House passed a measure that would make sure anyone who received a Missouri driver’s license had passed the driver’s test in English.

This may seem like an odd requirement, but currently an individual in Missouri has the option to take the test in 11 different languages.  In 2008, however, Missourians voted to make English the state’s official language for all formal proceedings with a vote of 89%. We believe extending this into a requirement for a driver’s license makes sense.

While diversity is a proud part of our heritage and should continue to be in our future, we also believe that public safety is important as well. For instance, someone who cannot communicate in English during a routine traffic stop or during an emergency situation on a major roadway could potentially cause serious harm to other motorists.

The Missouri Department of Revenue currently provides an interpreter for any of the existing 11 approved languages – which adds even more bureaucracy and cost. The point is -- adding this English requirement not only simplifies the standard process of getting a driver’s license, but we believe it also improves public safety for our citizens.

We want to keep our families as safe as possible and a simple requirement like passing a driver’s license test in English can help do that.  This measure, known as HB167, received bipartisan support in the House of Representatives.  The bill now moves to the Missouri State Senate for further consideration.

Please let me know if you would like to receive my weekly updates via electronic E-Mail, by sending an email with your name to: Shelley.Keeney@house.mo.gov

As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns about state government.  Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-5912.  You may write me at: Shelley Keeney; Missouri House of Representatives; State Capitol -- Room 313; Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806 or email me.