Foster parents may be able to get children driver's license

A Senate committee has endorsed a bill Tuesday allowing foster parents to sign a permission form allowing their foster child to obtain a driver's license.

Under HB122, the foster child would drive under the umbrella of their foster parents' insurance. The state would then reimburse the parent for their costs, estimated around $37,800 per year.

Rep. David Litvack, D-Salt Lake, the bill's sponsor, said he believes about 40 foster children between ages 16 and 18 would be eligible for a license if the bill passed.

Sen. Karen Mayne, D-West Valley, said she appreciate the bill, being a foster parent herself. "I think this helps them have control and it gives them some freedom," she said. "I think it's a tool for these foster parents."

HB122 now moves to the full Senate for debate. It has already passed through the House.