The Florida House is taking steps to ensure foster kids can get their driver鈥檚 license.
Lawmakers established Keys to Independence in 2014 as a three year pilot program to help foster youth get behind the wheel. The program covers fees, driver鈥檚 education and insurance. Logyn Robinson is a senior in a Bradenton high school who lives in foster care group home.
鈥淭hough I already obtained my learner鈥檚 permit before coming into state care,鈥� Robinson says, 鈥渋t is relieving to know that I or my peers will not be constrained from acquiring a driver鈥檚 license.鈥�
Esperanza Harb is 18 and entered the foster system two years ago.
鈥淛ust two years ago I did not want to learn how to drive,鈥� Harb says, 鈥渒nowing how crazy people drive鈥攈ow people text and drive. With Keys to Independence they offered me double time behind the wheel before I got my license so I could be prepared.鈥�
Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R-Mount Dora) is backing the measure to make the pilot permanent. Her proposal also extends coverage for six months after recipients turn 18.
Copyright 2020 WFSU. To see more, visit . 9(MDAyNDY5MjM1MDEyODE2MzMyMTZmZDQwMg001))
