Legislature(2001 - 2002)
2001-01-09 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2001-01-09 Senate Journal Page 0030 SB 20 SENATE BILL NO. 20 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act providing for the revocation of driving privileges by a court for a driver convicted of a violation of traffic laws in connection with a fatal motor vehicle or commercial motor vehicle accident; amending Rules 43 and 43.1, Alaska Rules of Administration; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Judiciary and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, zero, Department of Law Fiscal Note No. 2, zero, Department of Administration Fiscal Note No. 3, Department of Administration Governor's transmittal letter dated January 8: Dear President Halford: It may be surprising, but true, that many traffic accidents leading to deaths carry no criminal punishment. The driver may be guilty of a simple traffic violation carrying a maximum fine of $300. At least 10 deaths a year on our state highways can fall into this category. Perhaps the driver fell asleep at the wheel or skidded on ice, and the consequences are deadly to a passing motorist or pedestrian. 2001-01-09 Senate Journal Page 0031 Regardless of whether their conduct is criminal, drivers whose traffic violations contribute to a fatal accident pose a risk to people on the highways and cause much suffering to family and friends of their victims. I am re-introducing this bill that takes seriously these tragic deaths by requiring, under certain circumstances, revocation of driving privileges of a driver involved in a fatal traffic accident. This bill requires the court to revoke for one year the driving privileges of a person who violated traffic laws which contributed to an accident that resulted in a death. The license revocation applies to drivers of all vehicles, including those for commercial use. The court would be allowed to grant limited license privileges if it determines driving is critical to the person's livelihood and will not pose a danger to the public. When people drive in an unsafe way and cause the death of another, their privilege to drive should be revoked to protect other drivers, their passengers, and pedestrians on the roadways. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor