TRAFFIC SAFETY LEGISLATION 59

sons over 65 are among our best and most careful drivers, and they
need have no concern over losing their licenses if they can meet the
standards now required of any driver. But there are no doubt some
who would have physical impairments that might require either loss
of license or a restricted type of license. Under this legislation, the
Commissioner of Motor Vehicles could take whatever steps are in-
dicated"

Blind and Nearly Blind — The Health and Welfare departments
would be required to notify the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles
of any person now receiving assistance for being blind or nearly
blind. Any of these holding a driver's license — and, incredibly, there
apparently are some who are still licensed — would be required to
submit to a reexamination.

Motorcycles — The number of two-wheeled motor vehicles regis-
tered in Maryland has nearly tripled in 2 1/2 years. Of the 25, 500
registered at present, fewer than 1, 000 individuals have satisfactorily
qualified as operators of these machines. The proposed legislation
would provide for a comprehensive licensing system and also require
that any rider of a two-wheeled motor vehicle—passenger as well as
driver—wear a helmet to prevent or reduce head injuires.

Driver Education — "It was with some surprise that I learned
shortly before taking office that no effort had been made to comply
with the 1966 Maryland law which requires up to 30 hours of class-
room instruction as a condition for obtaining a driver's license under
age 18. The requirement was to take effect June 1 this year. This
program will have to be deferred for one year in order to obtain a
sufficient number of instructors to make the required training available
in the public schools of this State.

"Accordingly, the bill I am submitting to the General Assembly
tonight will postpone the effective date to July 1, 1968, and at the
same time strengthen the law to bring it into compliance with pro-
posed Federal standards. The new legislation will require a minimum
— instead of a maximum — of 30 hours of classroom instruction and
will add the vital requirement of at least six hours of on the road
driving as part of any such course. "

Side Mirrors — The bill would require that all motor vehicles be
equipped with a side mirror on the driver's side to permit clear and
unobstructed vision to the rear and left of the vehicle. This is standard
equipment now on most cars, and the proposed legislation would make
certain that all vehicles carry this important safety device.