Ohio proposes grants for low-cost driver's education and fee increases for highway patrol funding

The Ohio House Public Safety Committee meeting on February 19, 2025, focused on critical issues surrounding driver education and the funding of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

A significant discussion centered on the need for improved access to driver education programs for teens in Ohio. Committee members highlighted that the high costs of driver education, ranging from $300 to $800, and lengthy wait times for in-car training create barriers for many new drivers. To address this, the Ohio traffic safety office has initiated the "Drive to Succeed" program, which provides grants to local entities for scholarships aimed at high school students. The proposed budget aims to expand this initiative by offering grants to schools, allowing them to either create their own driver training programs or partner with private driving schools. This move is intended to make driver education more accessible and affordable for students.

The meeting also addressed the urgent funding needs of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Officials warned that without addressing a looming funding crisis, the patrol could face significant operational changes that would jeopardize public safety. The funding model for the patrol has not adapted to inflation since 2003, relying primarily on fees from driver's licenses and vehicle registrations, which have not increased in line with rising costs. To remedy this, the proposed budget includes a $10 increase in the motor vehicle registration fee and a $3 increase in vehicle titling fees, with all additional revenue earmarked specifically for the highway patrol's operations.

These discussions underscore the committee's commitment to enhancing driver safety education and ensuring the sustainability of law enforcement services in Ohio. The proposed measures aim to provide better resources for new drivers while securing the necessary funding for the state's highway patrol to maintain its critical services.