Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2233

Introduced

4/24/24

Refer

4/24/24

Refer

5/22/24

Report Pass

6/3/24

Engrossed

6/3/24

Refer

6/4/24

Refer

6/27/24

Report Pass

7/2/24

Enrolled

7/3/24

Chaptered

7/8/24

Passed

7/8/24

Caption

In miscellaneous provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for accident scene clearance.

Impact

The proposed changes are significant for state law as they delineate clear responsibilities and protections for tow truck operators, especially in emergency situations. By providing a legal safeguard, the bill encourages faster response times in the aftermath of traffic incidents, potentially reducing secondary accidents that can occur due to lingering disabled vehicles on roadways. Additionally, it may relieve local authorities from the complexities of varying local ordinances regarding vehicle recovery, simplifying the legal landscape for operators in the Commonwealth.

Summary

House Bill 2233 seeks to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes regarding the operation of vehicles, specifically focusing on accident scene clearance protocols. The bill introduces a provision whereby tow truck owners or operators will not be held liable for violations of vehicle and traffic laws while performing duties directed by a police officer at accident scenes. This legislation is intuitive, aiming to streamline the recovery process of wrecked or disabled vehicles during emergencies, ensuring that these operators can act swiftly under police supervision without fear of legal repercussions for standard traffic violations that might occur during such situations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 2233 appears to be positive, particularly among law enforcement and towing industry representatives. They view the bill as a necessary measure that enhances operational efficiency and safety. However, some concerns have been raised about ensuring that the bill does not inadvertently encourage reckless behavior among tow operators who may feel overly protected by the law. The overall support suggests an acknowledgment of the need for clear protocols in emergency situations involving vehicle recovery.

Contention

While the bill has garnered bipartisan support, debates may arise regarding the extent of the protections offered. Proponents argue that these changes are essential for improving safety and efficiency, while opponents may challenge the implications for local governance and the potential for misuse of the provisions. The bill does specify that the protection does not exempt tow truck operators from maintaining due regard for the safety of all individuals, a measure aimed at addressing potential concerns over reckless towing practices during accident recoveries.

Latest PA HB2233 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB2233

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2121

In miscellaneous provisions relating to operation of vehicles, providing for hayride combination crossings.

PA HB822

In miscellaneous provisions relating to accidents and accident reports, further providing for immediate notice of accident to police department.

PA HB880

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in financial responsibility, providing for utility terrain vehicles; in special vehicles and pedestrians, providing for operation of utility terrain vehicles; in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for off-road vehicles in urban municipalities; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1504

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege; in rules of the road in general, further providing for overtaking vehicle on the left and providing for vehicles passing pedestrians on a highway; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for penalty for violation of subchapter; and, in miscellaneous provisions relating to offenses in general, further providing for the offense of careless driving.

PA HB1346

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege; in rules of the road in general, further providing for overtaking vehicle on the left and providing for vehicles passing pedestrians on a highway; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for penalty for violation of subchapter; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for the offense of careless driving.

PA SB37

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.

PA SB1116

In miscellaneous provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for homicide by vehicle while driving under influence.

PA HB1205

In general provisions relating to vehicles, further providing for definitions; in financial responsibility, providing for mini trucks; providing for additional special vehicles; and, in inspection of vehicles, further providing for operation of vehicle without official certificate of inspection and providing for vehicles exempt from emission inspections.

PA HB1338

In miscellaneous provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for the offense of off-road vehicles in urban municipalities.

PA SB774

In miscellaneous provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for homicide by vehicle while driving under influence.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.