"Securing Access to Funding for Educating Drivers (SAFE) Act"; establishes NJ Behind-The-Wheel Driver Education Scholarship Program; appropriates $1 million.

The SAFE Act (S 1915) creates a New Jersey scholarship program to help low-income teens aged 16-17 cover the cost of a required six-hour behind-the-wheel driver education course. It appropriates $1 million from the state General Fund to provide scholarships covering the full course cost or $500 (whichever is less) for eligible residents from households at or below twice the federal poverty level. To qualify, applicants must be NJ residents, pass a written driving exam, and meet income requirements. The program, administered by the Motor Vehicle Commission, will award scholarships on a rolling basis as funds allow, with annual reports to the Governor and Legislature. The bill is pending in the Senate Transportation Committee.