Massachusetts Elderly Driver Bill Stalls on Beacon Hill

By Steve LeBlanc | November 23, 2009

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A bill that would require Massachusetts drivers age 75 or older to pass cognitive and physical exams every time they renew their licenses has stalled on Beacon Hill.

The legislation gained momentum this summer after a spate of car accidents involving elderly drivers.

But when lawmakers closed their formal legislative session Wednesday, the bill was stuck in committee.

House Transportation Chairman Rep. Joseph Wagner, who voted to recommend the bill, now says the bill should delete any age-based testing requirement.

The Chicopee Democrat said the state should focus on weeding out unfit drivers regardless of age.

But other supporters of the bill say there’s evidence the ability to drive safely decreases with age. They say it’s unrealistic to have legislation that doesn’t require some kind of age-based testing.

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Latest Comments

  • December 2, 2009 at 2:05 am
    Donna says:
    The elderly don't cause ALL the accidents. I've worked in claims a long time. In one week accidents involving 'young' people speeding; texting, drinking killed 3 pedestrians,... read more
  • November 25, 2009 at 8:29 am
    Bill says:
    This has to be the most ignorant state in the Country. They elect the most liberal out of touch with reality politicians and complain about their taxes and cant figure out tha... read more
  • November 24, 2009 at 2:22 am
    dt says:
    I just found the text of the bill--it's age 85 or older, not 75.
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