VERMONT — Gov. Peter Shumlin announced this week that starting Sept. 1, individuals with outstanding traffic tickets that have led to license suspension may be eligible for a reduced fine through a statewide Driver Restoration Program.
The Vermont Judicial Bureau and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are rolling out a three-month Driver Restoration Program. From Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, people who have an unpaid fine for a traffic ticket for which judgment was entered prior to July 1, 2012 may apply to the Vermont Judicial Bureau for a reduced fine of $30 per ticket.
“We’re helping Vermonters clean up their driving record so they can get back to work, driving their kids to school and getting their lives back on track,” Gov. Shumlin said.
In an effort to reduce the obstacles for individuals to reinstate their driving licenses, the Vermont Legislature passed Act 147. In accordance with this Act, the Driver Restoration Program addresses suspensions arising from nonpayment of traffic violation fines. Other suspensions, such as those arising from driving under the influence, shall remain in effect. Traffic fines that involve violation of a law specifically governing the operation of commercial motor vehicles are not eligible for reduction under the program.
“Without a valid driver’s license, many Vermonters are unable to legally access jobs, health care and other important services. This program will have a positive impact on increasing the numbers of Vermonters driving legally and with proper insurance,” said VTrans Secretary Chris Cole.
This statewide program builds on the success of previous Driver Restoration Days. The inability or failure to pay traffic tickets can lead to additional tickets, which can result in a criminal suspension of an individual’s license. This situation disproportionately affects lower-income Vermonters. The Vermont Judicial Bureau and DMV estimate that approximately 40,000 Vermonters are eligible to apply.
The application form is available online at www.vermontjudiciary.org, at the Vermont Judicial Bureau in White River Junction, or at DMV offices in Bennington, Montpelier, Newport, Rutland, South Burlington and Springfield. Completed applications can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to the Vermont Judicial Bureau at PO Box 607, White River Junction, VT 05001.