Those at age 55 are currently eligible to take a defensive driving class managed by the Department of Public Safety. If a driver successfully completes the course, he or she receives a certificate from the department that authorizes the discount. Every third year, renewal is required. Rep. Jenifer Loon (R-Eden Prairie) hopes to make that renewal process simpler.
Her bill,
HF2441/
SF1542*, allows seniors to take a four-hour refresher course instead of retaking the full eight-hour course every three years. The House passed the bill 131-0 March 26. Sen. Paul Gazelka (R-Brainerd) sponsors the companion, which the Senate has already passed.
“As one who barely qualifies for this program and has taken the eight-hour course, I fully support the bill,” said Rep. Paul Anderson (R-Starbuck). The bill awaits gubernatorial action.