Madison – Representative Bob Donovan (R-Greenfield) gave a statement following the bill signing ceremony for Wisconsin Act 86 in the Capitol. Governor Tony Evers signed Rep. Donovan’s bipartisan driver education grant program that establishes the state’s first driver education program since 2004. This program will provide grants to eligible providers on the behalf of individuals seeking an initial operator’s license for Class D motor vehicles. The individual must satisfy the income criteria to be eligible for the grant which requires them to qualify for free or reduced-price lunch in the federal school lunch program.

“Driver education is a rite of passage for so many young adults across our state and country. It may be their first opportunity to experience true responsibility. They are responsible for themselves, the drivers around them and the vehicle in their care. Unfortunately, many young people have forgone driver education all together as the costs continue to balloon. Young drivers may still drive despite lacking the important instruction that comes with driver education.

“The goal of this legislation is to remove that financial barrier between a dangerous young driver and a safe young driver. This important instruction can be impactful in forming a defensive driver at an early age. It certainly was for me growing up as I learned that a car can have catastrophic consequences if used improperly. We all benefit when we have safer drivers on the road and this bill will do just that.

Today, Wisconsin is taking action to again provide assistance for driver education after almost two decades since it was eliminated. I am extremely proud that we could make these investments in our young people and road safety. I’m also thankful for the large bipartisan group of legislators who helped support this proposal and ultimately delivered a tangible accomplishment for Wisconsinites.”