Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB286

Introduced
3/14/23  

Caption

In licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation.

Impact

The enactment of HB 286 is expected to streamline the response process for citations, thus potentially leading to a decrease in the number of drivers with suspended licenses due to non-response. By clarifying the suspension protocol, the bill aims to improve public safety on the roads, encouraging individuals to address legal notices related to driving violations promptly. Additionally, the bill establishes a 15-day notice requirement prior to suspension, providing individuals with adequate time to respond, which could mitigate undeserved penalties.

Summary

House Bill 286 amends Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, focusing on the suspension of operating privileges for drivers who fail to respond to citations. Under this legislation, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is authorized to suspend the driving privileges of individuals who do not respond to a citation, summons, or writ from the courts, both within and outside of Pennsylvania. The bill specifically excludes parking violations from this provision, emphasizing the aim to ensure compliance with serious motor vehicle laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 286 appears to be generally positive among legislators who support the bill, viewing it as an important step toward enhancing driver accountability and public safety. Supporters argue that it helps to close loopholes in the existing law that allow individuals to evade consequences for serious driving violations. However, there may be concerns from advocacy groups regarding the potential for disproportionate impacts on low-income individuals who might struggle to respond to citations due to financial constraints.

Contention

While HB 286 seeks to strengthen enforcement mechanisms for motor vehicle laws, it also raises questions about fairness and accessibility. Opponents may argue that the suspension of licenses for failure to respond could exacerbate issues for those unable to afford fines or those facing barriers to accessing legal resources. Thus, discussions may arise regarding the balance between ensuring compliance with the law and considering the socioeconomic factors that affect individuals' abilities to respond to legal notices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB328

In sentencing, further providing for payment of court costs, restitution and fines, for fine and for failure to pay fine; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

PA SB334

In sentencing, further providing for payment of court costs, restitution and fines, for fine and for failure to pay fine; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

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 SB1118

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing 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 HB190

In enforcement, further providing for jurisdiction and penalties; in sentencing, further providing for sentencing generally, for fine, for collection of restitution, reparation, fees, costs, fines and penalties and for payment of court costs, restitution and fines, repealing provisions relating to fine and further providing for failure to pay fine; in licensing of drivers, repealing provisions relating to suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation, providing for fee for restoration of operating privilege and further providing for restoration of operating privilege, for occupational limited license and for probationary license; in financial responsibility, further providing for definitions; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, repealing provisions relating to inability to pay fine and costs.

PA A809

Prohibits suspension of driving privileges and arrest for certain crimes and offenses.

PA S1090

Prohibits suspension of driving privileges and arrest for certain crimes and offenses.

PA HB1545

In registration of vehicles, further providing for suspension of registration upon sixth unpaid parking violation in cities of the first class; and making editorial changes.

PA SB440

Prohibiting suspension of a person's driving privileges or driver's license due to nonpayment of fines or court costs from traffic citations.

PA HB2743

Prohibiting suspension of a person's driving privileges or driver's license due to nonpayment of fines or court costs from traffic citations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.