People convicted of misdemeanor drug offenses would no longer automatically lose their drivers licenses under a bill the Texas Senate passed Friday.

Nearly three decades ago, the U.S. Congress passed a law requiring a six-month license suspension and $100 fine for anyone convicted of a crime involving drugs. That federal law has been updated, however, to allow states to opt out.

Senate Bill 691 by Sen. Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas, would end the automatic license suspension for people convicted of misdemeanor drug crimes who complete a drug treatment program within six months. The Legislature must pass one of two resolutions to ensure this bill becomes law.

Johnson, a freshman senator, ousted Republican Don Huffines from the seat last year.

On Friday, the bill was passed 22-8. It now heads to the Texas House for further debate. The bill's House companion, by GOP Rep. James White of Hillister, was debated in committee but never voted out.