BOSTON— Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced today that the Massachusetts Senate passed legislation relative to motor vehicle license suspensions.

The legislation repeals a current law that subjects individuals convicted of a non-violent drug offense to an automatic license suspension for up to five years and a license reinstatement fee of $500, even if the offense does not involve motor vehicles in any way. Thirty-four states, including every other state in New England, have already taken action to repeal similar laws.

The bill would have no effect on license suspension penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. It will also allow anyone previously subject to this provision to have their license reinstated without a fee.

“This legislation modernizes provisions of existing law that have no track record of enhancing public safety,” said Sen. Moore. “The bill does not diminish efforts to reduce drug use, but rather targets recidivism by helping to remove barriers to reintegration and employment acquisition.”

The bill also prevents prospective employers from accessing non-driving license suspension information which may harm the chances of employment for individuals convicted of a drug offense.

The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.