The Bluegrass State shocked people nationwide after it approved a bill that would lower the minimum age to acquire a learner’s permit from 16 to 15. That means, depending on when a teen’s birthday is, a 15-year-old could have their driver’s license before they turn 16.

In Kentucky, 16-year-olds can apply for an intermediate license, which comes with restrictions like not driving alone. At 17, they qualify for a full, unrestricted license.

Supporting lawmakers say the change was to make Kentucky roads safer, as well as boost the economy. Surrounding states also encourage teens to drive sooner, so the change would bring them closer in alignment.

“This measure would give young drivers the opportunity to develop safe driving habits before obtaining their operator’s license and would bring our state in line with neighboring states,” Representative Steven Rudy told LINK nky.

“Looking at our state’s workforce participation, it’s low across the board, but even in this teen area. How many fast food jobs could be filled by students who want to get a job but simply can’t get to a job? Particularly more in the rural areas.”

Let’s talk about the other states encouraging younger drivers

Arkansas, Iowa, and Kansas allow drivers to get their licenses when they’re just 14 years old. Maryland has a minimum driver’s license age of 15 and nine months.

While it’s not a new thing to have drivers be younger, some think the bill will make irresponsible people even less responsible. Melanie Perez, a 16-year-old with a learner’s permit, thinks it can be dangerous.

“In my high school, specifically, all of the freshmen and sophomores are a lot more irresponsible than they should be,” she told Spectrum News 1 reporters. “They act like they’re still in middle school.”

Some are worried it’ll make car insurance more expensive, while others are concerned it puts young people in danger. Especially since the NHTSA states that car accidents are the leading cause of death for people aged 15-20.