Bad drivers in Florida may be used to help rescue the state’s 20 trauma centers under a bill that passed a key state legislative committee this week.

Finding additional funds for the state’s trauma centers is a high priority for state lawmakers this year, The Miami Herald reported.

A Senate bill, sponsored by Sen. Jeff Atwater, R-North Palm Beach, would have drivers shoulder more of the burden for the $44 million Florida pays each year for the emergency care.

The proposal would increase fines and fees as much as $2,000 for drivers who run red lights, cause crashes, drive a vehicle or boat under the influence of alcohol or otherwise rack up points on their licenses.

If signed into law, the bad driver fees could generate as much as $100 million in the first year, the newspaper reported.

A driver’s first drunken driving offense would result in a $1,000 tax paid annually, in addition to other traffic fines, the newspaper reported. Those convicted of a second drunken driving offense would see the annual tax jump to $1,500. Drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.2 percent would face a $2,000 annual tax.

Speeders or other drivers with bad driving records who accumulate seven points on their license would pay an additional $1,000 annually, with each additional point costing an extra $25.

The Senate Health, Aging and Long Term Care Committee unanimously approved the measure – S2842 – March 30, sending it to the full Senate for consideration. A similar House bill – H755 – sponsored by Rep. Sandra Murman, R-Tampa, is awaiting a House panel vote.