Scroll Top

GREENSTEIN-DIEGNAN BILL TO RESTORE DRIVER’S ED PROGRAM AT MARIE KATZENBACH SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF NOW LAW

Senator Linda Greenstein, D-Middlesex and Mercer, addresses the State Senate after being sworn in to office.

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senate Law and Public Safety Committee Chair Linda R. Greenstein and Senator Patrick J. Diegnan, Jr. that would allow students enrolled in the Marie Katzenbach School for the Deaf to operate a State vehicle for purposes of behind-the-wheel instruction as part of the school’s regular curriculum driver education course was signed into law yesterday.

“This law will restore an important and exemplary driver’s education program at the school,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer, Middlesex). “It was great to see the students, their teachers and aides make the trip to the State House on at least three separate occasions as the bill made its way through the legislative process. Their dedication and eagerness to learn how to drive and be independent is inspiring, and I am pleased that the governor signed this bill into law.”

The Marie Katzenbach School for the Deaf, located in Ewing Township, is the only state school in New Jersey. It was established in 1832 and serves students ages three to 21. The school is the only public school that offers behind-the-wheel driver education classes for the deaf and hard of hearing students. In 2015, the school received a new car to provide behind-the-wheel training; however, they were not able to offer the program due to the State insurance not covering the students who are learning to drive.

“This law will provide the necessary protections under tort claims that will allow the driver’s education program to resume at the school,” added Senator Diegnan (D-Middlesex).

The law (S-2108) takes effect immediately.