By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill making driving with an expired license a civil infraction. Current law classifies it as criminal and carries with it a fine up to $500.
The bill would reduce the fine to $50 if the license has been expired for less than 90 days and $100 if the license is expired for 90 days or more. The legislation distinguishes an expired license from a revoked license or a driver who never possessed a license.
“This legislation makes sense because sometimes people merely forget to renew their license,” said sponsor Rep. Chris Markey (D-Dartmouth). “People should not be arrested for being forgetful as opposed to someone who is knowingly endangering others on the road.”