DENVER — Gov. Jared Polis recently signed a new bill into law that would lower the age limit to drive commercial motor vehicles in the state.

The legislation would allow a person who is at least 18 years old but under 21 to be licensed to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) if they hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and is authorized by federal law to drive a CMV in interstate commerce.

State Rep. Barbara McLachlan, one of the sponsors of the bill, told KDVR that she’s hopeful for a positive outcome, and that a federal law is passed to expand age requirements. Supporters of the legislation see it as a “win-win” situation, as it would offer a career option for those looking to make money immediately after high school, the news source reports. Opponents of the law however, argue that some drivers may not feel comfortable sharing the road with young adults who have only had their driver's license for two to three years, according to KDVR.

The law is expected to take effect on Aug. 2, 2019, according to the state’s general assembly website.

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Sadiah Thompson

Sadiah Thompson

Assistant Editor

Sadiah Thompson is an assistant editor at School Bus Fleet magazine.

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