Peach Tree Times

State Representative Imani Barnes (D-Tucker) has voiced her support for a recent report from the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA). The report aligns with the objectives of House Bill 914, also known as the Safe Teens Act, which Barnes proposed. The DOAA report underscores the necessity for enhanced access to driver education, indicating that current funding reaches only a limited number of teen drivers and yields mixed safety outcomes.

“I am encouraged by the auditor’s report, which echoes the core principles behind HB 914,” said Rep. Barnes. “I worked hard on this legislation last session, and seeing this report validates the need for this legislation and reinforces its importance. HB 914 addresses the essential need for thorough driver education for teens in Georgia, with the goal of boosting their safety and road readiness. I’m hopeful this bill will move forward and reach the governor’s desk during the 2025 legislative session, as it is essential that we take action to protect our teens and promote safe driving practices.”

During the 2024 legislative session, Rep. Barnes introduced HB 914. The bill would authorize local boards of education and other public school governing bodies to offer driver education as an elective course worth one-half of an elective credit for students. This would be funded through local funds, student fees, or state funding. Under the proposed legislation, driver education training courses would need approval from the Department of Driver Services (DDS) and instruction by a DDS-licensed driver training instructor.

To read the full report from the DOAA, please click here.