Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB453

Introduced

2/27/23

Refer

2/27/23

Refer

4/24/23

Report Pass

5/9/23

Engrossed

6/5/23

Refer

6/6/23

Caption

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock.

Impact

The legislative changes brought by SB453 will have significant implications for individuals convicted of summary offenses related to driving privileges. In particular, the bill seeks to consolidate and clarify penalties for those found operating vehicles under suspended or revoked licenses due to past DUI offenses. The amendments are geared towards establishing stricter control over repeat offenders while also providing a clearer pathway for individuals to regain their driving privileges through the use of ignition interlock devices. This initiative is seen as an effort to enhance road safety by reducing instances of impaired driving.

Summary

Senate Bill 453 aims to amend sections of Titles 42 and 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning sentencing for certain driving offenses, specifically those related to driving under suspension and the implementation of ignition interlock systems. The bill proposes modifications to sentencing guidelines, allowing for determinate sentences in cases of summary offenses that result in a total confinement of 90 days or less. Additionally, it outlines the conditions under which individuals driving with a suspended license due to alcohol or drug violations can be penalized, streamlining processes involving ignition interlock limited licenses and their associated regulations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB453 appears to be cautiously supportive among legislators who advocate for increased road safety and accountability. Proponents argue that the bill provides a necessary update to existing regulations and addresses a critical issue of repeat offenses. However, there is also concern among some stakeholders regarding the potential for inequities in sentencing and the administrative burden placed on individuals seeking to comply with ignition interlock requirements. Overall, while there is acknowledgment of the bill's intent, debates focus on the best means to implement these changes responsibly.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns from various advocacy groups regarding the implications of a more punitive approach to DUI offenders, particularly in relation to sentencing durations and the financial strain introduced by ignition interlock installations. Critics argue that the bill may disproportionately affect low-income individuals, making it more challenging for them to recover their driving privileges. The balance between public road safety and fair treatment of offenders remains a pivotal aspect of discussions, highlighting the complexities inherent in legal reforms dealing with substance-related driving offenses.

Latest PA SB453 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session SB453

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB697

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock.

PA HB1712

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock, for prior offenses, for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, for drug and alcohol assessments and for mandatory sentencing and providing for substance monitoring program.

PA HB1290

In licensing of drivers, further providing for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for penalties, for ignition interlock and for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition.

PA SB63

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA SB363

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB878

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB983

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB1781

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for accelerated rehabilitative disposition and for drug and alcohol assessments.

PA HB1521

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing for drivers required to be licensed, for suspension of operating privilege, for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation and for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked, providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended for certain other offenses, for relief from administrative suspension and for relief from administrative suspension participation requirements; in fees, further providing for reinstatement of operating privilege or vehicle registration; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

PA A4800

Concerns use of ignition interlock devices for drunk driving offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.