This bill amends Section 31-10-20 of the General Laws regarding driver education course requirements for individuals under eighteen years of age. It allows for the continuation of instructor-led virtual driver education courses, which have been temporarily authorized since April 2020, until July 1, 2027. The bill specifies that these virtual courses must be recognized as equivalent to traditional classroom instruction by the state board of education. Additionally, it mandates that a report comparing the test results of students who completed the virtual instruction versus those who attended in-person classes be submitted to the speaker of the house and the president of the senate by September 1, 2027.

The bill also includes several insertions and deletions to clarify the requirements for obtaining a limited-instruction permit or license. Notably, it inserts language to allow for the virtual format of driver education courses and emphasizes the importance of accessibility and equity in education, particularly for students facing physical, emotional, or learning challenges. The act is set to take effect upon passage, ensuring that the virtual instruction option remains available for the specified duration while also promoting the evaluation of its effectiveness compared to traditional methods.

Statutes affected:
832: 31-10-20