Jefferson City – Despite his status as a first-year legislator and a member of the minority party, Rep. Jason Grill, D-Parkville, helped gain approval of legislation that would make it easier for deployed Missourians to renew a driver’s license. Rep. Grill was the handler of Senate Bill 666 that was approved in the House by a vote of 158-0. The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City, contains language identical to that contained in Rep. Grill’s own bill (HB933)
“It was an honor to have the opportunity to handle this bill in the House and I appreciate everything Rep. David Day, R-Dixon, (Chair of the House Veterans Committee) did to help me with this process,” said Rep. Grill. “I am delighted the majority party gave me the chance to lead the effort in passing this issue. It has been an incredible experience for me as a first-year legislator and I am excited we have the chance to help the brave men and women who are serving our country overseas.”
Both SB 666 and HB 933 state that an application for a driver’s license or renewal would be sufficient when signed by person who holds a general power of attorney executed by the currently deployed member of the U.S. Armed Forces. SB 666 has additional language that allows certain licensed professionals to renew a license expiring while they are serving in the military, within 60 days from completing their service.
During the process in the House, SB 666 had one amendment added to it that would allow a military veteran to submit his or her certificate of release or discharge from active duty, noting honorable discharge, as proof of lawful presence for the purpose of obtaining a driver's or nondriver's license.
SB 666 was never brought up for final approval on the Senate floor by Senate Majority Floor Leader Charlie Shields.
