Pennsylvania House Bill HB2364

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/3/24
• Refer: 6/3/24
• Refer: 6/10/24
• Report Pass: 6/28/24
• Refer: 6/28/24
• Report Pass: 7/1/24
• Engrossed: 7/1/24
• Refer: 7/12/24

Caption

In motorcycles, further providing for motorcycle safety education program.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2364 is expected to have significant positive implications for motorcycle safety in Pennsylvania. By lowering the financial barrier to entry for safety courses through a refundable fee, the bill encourages more individuals to complete these courses. This legislation aligns with broader public safety goals, as increased participation in safety training can lead to fewer accidents and fatalities. Additionally, the required reporting on course enrollment statistics will provide lawmakers with data to assess and improve the program further, thereby reinforcing the State's commitment to road safety.

Summary

House Bill 2364 amends Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the Motorcycle Safety Education Program. It establishes a system where individuals registering for approved motorcycle safety courses are charged a nominal registration fee, not exceeding $50, which is fully refundable upon course attendance. This initiative aims to encourage enrollment in safety courses, which are critical for reducing motorcycle accidents and enhancing road safety. The Department is tasked with analyzing the impact of this fee structure on enrollment, which will contribute valuable data on the effectiveness of this legislative effort.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2364 has generally been supportive, with recognition of its potential to improve motorcycle safety and education. Legislators have emphasized the importance of encouraging individuals to participate in safety courses to create safer roads. However, there are concerns regarding the practicality of fee collection and how effectively the refund process will be administered. Supporters argue that the benefits of increased safety training far outweigh any administrative challenges, viewing this legislation as a necessary step towards enhancing rider education and safety.

Contention

Although the general sentiment toward HB 2364 is positive, there are notable points of contention. Some stakeholders have raised concerns about the feasibility of a refundable registration fee, questioning whether this approach will sufficiently incentivize course enrollment. Additionally, there may be debates about how the data collected by the Department will be used, particularly regarding further legislative measures that could arise based on the findings. These discussions underscore the need for a balanced perspective on how best to implement such safety initiatives in the future.