MADISON - Wisconsin drivers would have to buy liability insurance for their vehicles under the state budget poised to pass the Legislature.
The new requirement has been proposed since the 1970s, but always blocked by the insurance industry.
This year it's in the state budget that passed the Senate early Friday morning and will be before the Assembly later on Friday. Gov. Jim Doyle has expressed his support for it.
Sen. John Lehman, a Democrat from Racine, has proposed the mandate ever since 2001. He says people want it, especially those who have been hit by uninsured drivers.
New Hampshire is the only other state that does not require the insurance.
The Wisconsin requirement would take effect in a year.
Anyone pulled over who doesn't have an insurance card would be subject to a $10 fine.
Story By: The Associated Press