Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2251

Introduced
4/30/24  
Refer
4/30/24  
Refer
5/22/24  
Report Pass
6/3/24  
Engrossed
6/3/24  

Caption

In abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for notice to owner and lienholders of abandoned vehicles, for authorization for disposal of unclaimed vehicles and for processing of nonrepairable or salvage vehicles.

Impact

If passed, HB2251 would significantly alter the procedures related to abandoned vehicle management in Pennsylvania. Specifically, it mandates that the Department must send notifications to registered owners and lienholders within 10 business days of identifying a vehicle as abandoned. Furthermore, it enables quicker authorization for the disposal of these vehicles when owners do not reclaim them within a stipulated time frame after notification. This amendment is intended to help clear abandoned vehicles more efficiently from public spaces, benefitting local communities and maintaining public safety.

Summary

House Bill 2251 aims to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, focusing on the regulations surrounding abandoned vehicles and their disposal. This bill introduces provisions for notifying owners and lienholders about abandoned vehicles and establishes a clearer process for the authorization and disposal of unclaimed or nonrepairable vehicles. The changes seek to enhance the efficiency of handling abandoned vehicles by providing more definitive guidelines on how notifications should be sent and what constitutes acceptable notice when owners cannot be identified.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2251 appears largely supportive, with most members acknowledging the need for improved regulations regarding abandoned vehicles. There is a general consensus that the current system may be cumbersome and slow, thus affecting public safety. However, some concerns have been voiced regarding the adequacy of notification methods, particularly if vehicle owners or lienholders cannot be easily identified. While supporters view this bill as a necessary step towards practical solutions, opponents may worry about the effectiveness of the notification process defined in the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential implications for how abandoned vehicles are processed, especially regarding adequate notice. Critics may argue that the reliance on public notices could lead to a lack of awareness among owners who should be notified, particularly in cases where the identity of lienholders remains uncertain. Opponents emphasize that more robust mechanisms for notification may be necessary to ensure fairness and transparency in the vehicle disposal process, thus highlighting a clash between efficiency and thoroughness in administrative procedures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB593

In abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for notice to owner and lienholders of abandoned vehicles, for authorization for disposal of unclaimed vehicles and for processing of nonrepairable or salvage vehicles.

PA HB103

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports by private property owners of abandoned vehicles.

PA HB373

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports by private property owners of abandoned vehicles.

PA HB719

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in certificate of title and security interests, further providing for refusing issuance of certificate, for transfer to vehicle salvage dealer and for transfer to scrap metal processor and providing for salvor nonrepairable vehicle reconstruction; in inspection of vehicles, further providing for limited liability of inspection station or mechanic and for certificate of appointment for enhanced vehicle safety inspection for reconstructed vehicle, modified or specially constructed inspection stations; in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports to department of possession of abandoned vehicles; and imposing penalties.

PA HB645

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in certificate of title and security interests, further providing for refusing issuance of certificate, for transfer to vehicle salvage dealer and for transfer to scrap metal processor and providing for salvor nonrepairable vehicle reconstruction; in inspection of vehicles, further providing for limited liability of inspection station or mechanic and for certificate of appointment for enhanced vehicle safety inspection for reconstructed vehicle, modified or specially constructed inspection stations; in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports to department of possession of abandoned vehicles; and imposing penalties.

PA SB894

In magisterial district judges, further providing for jurisdiction and venue; in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports by garage keepers of abandoned vehicles; and providing for garage or repair shop liens.

PA SB1129

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in certificate of title and security interests, further providing for transfer to vehicle salvage dealer and for transfer to scrap metal processor; and, in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for

PA HB2281

Relating to the titling of nonrepairable, salvage, and abandoned motor vehicles and the regulation of dealers of those vehicles or parts from those vehicles; providing penalties.

PA HB845

Abandoned vehicles; owner and lienholder information.

PA AB1901

Vehicles: total loss claim: salvage certificate or nonrepairable vehicle certificate.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.