Expressing Sense of Congress Regarding Candidates for Driver's Licenses

EXPRESSING SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING CANDIDATES FOR DRIVER'S LICENSES -- (House of Representatives - July 25, 2006)

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Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Wisconsin, Chairman PETRI, for yielding me this time.

I would like to thank Congressman LANE EVANS for his leadership on this matter. Congressman Evans and I serve together on the Veterans' Affairs Committee, and he is a tireless advocate for all veterans. I also want to thank Chairman PETRI for his leadership and support of the legislation.

H. Con. Res. 235 proposes that all States require that candidates for driver's licenses demonstrate the knowledge to use increased caution when driving in the vicinity of what may be a visually impaired individual.

As a member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I appreciate all the hard work the Blinded Veterans Association has done to support this legislation. The Blinded Veterans Association has received hundreds of letters and e-mails concerning individuals who have had their white canes hit or have been hit themselves in crosswalks by drivers who are unaware of what a white cane or guide dog indicated.

As an optometrist, I know firsthand that many people with visual impairments live normal, independent lives. They too should be able to travel without fear. Unfortunately, many States do not require people who are applying for driver's licenses to indicate awareness in regards to recognition of visually impaired pedestrians. Simple education can greatly increase the much-needed protection for visually impaired fellow citizens.

Again, I would like to thank Congressman Evans for his leadership on this matter, and I urge my colleagues to support House Concurrent Resolution 235.

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