Shackleford’s traffic amnesty study bill signed into law

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana lawmakers will study the feasibility of creating a traffic amnesty program, thanks to legislation authored by State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) that was signed into law this week by Governor Eric Holcomb.

House Enrolled Act 1268 calls for creation of an interim study committee to examine whether the state should establish a program that enables drivers who owe unpaid traffic fines or may be required to pay a fee to have their license reinstated to pay a reduced fee in order to meet those obligations. The committee would meet this summer, with an eye toward potential legislation being filed for consideration during the 2018 session of the Indiana General Assembly.

Shackleford said the committee also would study the potential creation of a process for a petition for traffic amnesty, as well as the requirements that must be met for a court to grant an amnesty request.

“I pursued this legislation because I feel there is a need to review why one in 10 Hoosiers have a suspended license in Indiana,” Shackleford said. “There are many drivers who are having increased difficulty in meeting their day-to-day obligations, such as driving to work, because they are struggling to pay these fines in a timely fashion.

“I would like us to take the time this summer to consider whether providing an amnesty would help provide a balance that enables them to continue to live up to their responsibilities, both to their daily lives and to the court,” she added. “I am pleased the governor agrees with the need for a study.”