Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2416

Introduced
6/13/24  

Caption

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility and providing for online verification of financial responsibility.

Impact

The implementation of this bill will simplify the process of verifying financial responsibility for vehicle owners while providing a structured approach for the Department of Transportation. By establishing an online system, the bill aims to prevent situations where motorists face penalties for lack of proof due to administrative inefficiencies. The bill is expected to enhance the accuracy of records regarding financial responsibility and ultimately lead to safer road conditions by ensuring that all drivers meet their insurance requirements. Additionally, a report on the system's effectiveness will be mandated within two years of implementation, to assess its impact on reducing uninsured vehicles.

Summary

House Bill 2416 aims to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, focusing on the required financial responsibility of motor vehicle registrants. The bill mandates that vehicle owners must certify their financial responsibility at the time of registration or renewal. A significant addition is a common-carrier-based online verification system that allows the Department of Transportation to verify this responsibility electronically. This system seeks to improve compliance and reduce the number of uninsured vehicles on the roads by ensuring that proof of financial responsibility can be quickly verified by authorities or the relevant agencies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2416 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who are focused on modernizing the verification process and promoting compliance with financial responsibility laws. Legislative sponsors believe that the online system not only simplifies verification but also enhances road safety by reducing the prevalence of uninsured drivers. However, concerns may arise related to privacy and how the collected data will be managed, potentially leading to debates about the balance between surveillance and individual rights in the name of public safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention may center on the obligations these changes impose on insurers, particularly regarding data sharing and compliance with the verification system. Insurance companies that issue a large number of policies will be significantly impacted, as they must cooperate and provide access to their policy databases. Additionally, there may be discussions around the amendments to current regulations related to penalties for non-compliance with financial responsibility, particularly how the bill may alter current practices around suspended registrations or the handling of license violations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1347

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility and providing for online verification of financial responsibility.

PA HB710

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility and providing for online verification of financial responsibility.

PA SB990

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility.

PA SB864

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility.

PA HB1534

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility.

PA HB1009

In financial responsibility, further providing for required financial responsibility.

PA HB893

In financial responsibility, further providing for rates.

PA SB959

Vehicle owners; proof of financial responsibility in the future.

PA HB2205

Vehicle owners; proof of financial responsibility in the future.

PA HB1497

In financial responsibility, further providing for driver improvement course discounts.

Similar Bills

CA AB1282

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CA AB1640

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CA AB1702

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MI SB0265

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MI SB0405

Transportation: funds; maintenance of nonmotorized transportation infrastructure; provide for. Amends sec. 10k of 1951 PA 51 (MCL 247.660k).

NJ A5554

"Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

NJ S4369

"Road to Relief Act"; establishes EDA grant program to support increased transportation expenses incurred by certain commuters, employees, and businesses impacted by certain public highway projects, including ongoing Interstate 80 project; appropriates $1 million.

HI HB776

Relating To Agricultural Support.