The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the regulation of juvenile drivers in Ohio, focusing on rehabilitation and appropriate consequences for traffic offenses. Key provisions include the introduction of specific fines for juvenile traffic offenders based on offense severity, and the option for first-time offenders of minor misdemeanors to complete an approved program instead of facing fines or points on their driving record. Additionally, if a juvenile is adjudicated for a minor offense, they may be required to complete an advanced juvenile driver improvement program, with no fines imposed upon proof of completion. The bill also considers a child's ability to pay financial sanctions and allows community service as an alternative to financial penalties.

Moreover, the legislation updates the issuance and regulation of temporary instruction permits and probationary driver's licenses for individuals under eighteen. It allows for the issuance of temporary instruction permits for operating motorized bicycles for those aged fourteen or fifteen and extends the validity of these permits from one year to one year and six months. The bill introduces new requirements for driver education courses, emphasizing distracted driving and proper techniques for various conditions, while also modifying restrictions for probationary license holders. It mandates the establishment of standards for juvenile driver improvement programs, which will include classroom instruction and practical exercises, and specifies the purposes for attending advanced programs, including the issuance of completion certificates. Several existing sections of the Revised Code are repealed to streamline the legal framework surrounding these programs.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2152.20, 2152.21, 4507.05, 4507.071, 4508.02, 4510.311