HUMASON COSPONSORS LEGISLATION INCREASING PENALTIES FOR UNLICENSED DRIVERS

Don Humason, Westfield’s State Representative, has cosponsored legislation that increases the penalties for the operation of a motor vehicle without a license.

Current Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 90 Section 20, states that anyone convicted of operating a motor vehicle without a license is subject to fines from $100.

The bill adds a provision within state law to allow for increased penalties for additional violations. The increased penalty for a second and subsequent offense for driving without a license will be a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1000 per conviction, and, up to 30 days in the House of Correction.

As Ranking Republican Member of the Public Safety Committee, Representative Perry, the bill’s lead sponsor, believes this legislation is necessary to help keep the state’s roadways and citizens safe from unlicensed operators. Also, as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Representative Perry is concerned about the financial impact that this illegal activity is having on those who are obeying the rules of the road.

"All you have to do is read the police logs in your local newspaper to see how prevalent this crime has become," said Representative Don Humason.  “Certain people are disregarding our motor vehicle laws. These laws are designed to keep all legitimate motorists safe. Representative Perry's bill will add teeth to the law and discourage repeat offenders."

In a statement, Representative Perry said, “We as a Commonwealth have established laws to keep our roadways safe, unfortunately, many have disregarded these safety measures. As members of the Legislature, we will not stand by and allow our traffic laws to be fragrantly violated by those engaging in illegal activity. The enhanced penalties are designed to deter such activity and penalize those who repeatedly violate our laws.”

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