The state Legislature managed to raise revenue while increasing the accountability of drivers in passing a law that takes effect in January.

The law, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, creates a system that will allow police officers who run information on a car tag to immediately determine whether the car has insurance.

Liability insurance has been required since 2000, but about 22 percent of drivers let insurance lapse after obtaining their tags.

Insurance companies will enjoy the most significant benefit of rigorous enforcement, but the state also will benefit. Alabama collects taxes on insurance premiums and fines from those who violate the law. Responsible drivers will benefit from having a lower chance of being hit by an uninsured driver.

It’s a good law that helps both drivers and the state budget.