Beshear signs HB 15 into law

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has signed House Bill 15 into law, allowing teens to obtain a learner’s permit at age 15 instead of 16. According to the Governor, the measure includes an emergency clause and took effect immediately upon his signature.

Beshear noted that he may have been influenced to sign the bill by his own children. In a lighthearted video shared online, the Governor is seen bantering with his daughter, Lila, and his son, Will, before signing:

“House Bill 15. Fine, I’ll sign it,” Beshear says in the clip, prompting a response from Lila: “Okay. I was hoping you would say that. Here’s the bill. Here’s your pen. To all the 15-year-olds out there, drive safely.”

The new law means that Kentucky residents as young as 15 can now begin the process of obtaining a driver’s license. Officials urge new drivers and their families to stay informed about driving laws and practice safe driving habits.