Ohio proposes $50 million for driver training in schools

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine wants to reinstate driver education programs in high schools with a proposed budget of $50 million over two years. The aim is to make driving training more accessible as many families currently find private driving schools too expensive, with some charges reaching $850. This financial burden has led many teens to delay getting their licenses until they turn 18, when driver training is no longer required. DeWine believes that making driver training available at schools will help reduce accidents among young drivers. A state study revealed that 18- and 19-year-olds have higher crash rates compared to 16- and 17-year-olds, which DeWine ties to a lack of driver training. His plan includes funding for high schools to create or improve their driver training programs. However, some experts are skeptical about the sustainability of this plan. David Cox, a driving school owner, expressed concerns that funding might be cut in the future, leaving schools unable to maintain their programs. He worries that government support could hurt private driving schools, decreasing the options available to students. Historically, driver education was part of high school curricula in Ohio. However, after budget cuts in the early 1990s, many schools stopped offering these programs. Today, only about 10% of public high schools provide driver training courses, often partnering with private driving schools. DeWine's proposal hopes to use tax revenue from marijuana sales to fund driver training. Schools could apply for grants to help with the costs. But the specifics are still unclear, including how or when these training classes would be offered. Cox points out that the proposed funding may not be enough to make a significant impact. He suggests considering a voucher system, where families would receive funds to choose their driver training provider. Critics argue that without a long-term commitment, the plan may not succeed. The state legislature must approve DeWine's proposal by July 1 to move forward with these changes.