HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 71
(By Delegates Warner, Mezzatesta and Michael)
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to make
a study of laws, rules and policies related to the issuance
of motor vehicle drivers' licenses to persons with low
vision.
Whereas, There is a shortage of public transportation
available to people with low vision for transportation to and
from work, school and community; and
Whereas, With the development of technology, including
bioptic telescopic lenses, low vision drivers are able to safely
operate motor vehicles enabling them to lead more productive and
independent lives; and
Whereas, The Division of Motor Vehicles does not have
statutory authority to issue restricted licenses to people with
low vision who would benefit from the use of bioptic telescopic
lenses; and
Whereas, There is a need for clear legislative direction for
the Division of Motor Vehicles to implement a program to ensure
that low vision drivers are qualified and safe motor vehicle operators; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby
requested to review, examine and study the status of the laws,
rules and policies related to the issuance of drivers' licenses
to people with low vision to enable them to use technologic
devices to help them live independent and constructive lives;
and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance appoint a subcommittee composed of nine members,
including three members of the Senate appointed by the President
of the Senate and three members of the House of Delegates
appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates, the
commissioner of the Division of Motor Vehicles or his or her
designee, the director of the Division of Rehabilitation Services
or his or her designee and one citizen member with low vision,
who would benefit by the development of a low vision drivers'
licensing program, appointed by the director of the Division of
Rehabilitation Services in consultation with the President of the
Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and
Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 1999,
on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its
recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct
this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary
legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint
Committee on Government and Finance.