Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2620

Introduced
10/7/24  

Caption

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for drivers required to be licensed, providing for undocumented immigrant driver's license invalid and further providing for persons exempt from licensing and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand; in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle, for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle, for the offense of homicide by vehicle while driving under influence and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under influence; in enforcement, further providing for impoundment for nonpayment of fines and vehicles or combinations with a gross vehicle weight rating of 17,000 pounds or less; in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for subsequent convictions of certain offenses; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2620 would significantly alter existing state laws regarding driver licensing, particularly as they pertain to undocumented immigrants. By invalidating driving licenses for these individuals, the bill aims to strengthen enforcement measures against illegal driving. The bill also outlines penalties for various vehicular offenses and addresses the impoundment of vehicles due to nonpayment of fines, thereby affecting individuals' obligations and liabilities under state traffic laws.

Summary

House Bill 2620 addresses several provisions concerning driver licensing and vehicle offenses within the state. It outlines definitions related to driver licensing, specifying that driver's licenses held by undocumented immigrants are invalid. The bill also details exemptions from licensing requirements and emphasizes the need to exhibit a driver's license upon demand by law enforcement. Additionally, it introduces new categories for offenses related to vehicular crimes, including homicide and aggravated assault by vehicle, especially in cases involving driving under the influence.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 2620 appears to be divided. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary measure for ensuring public safety by enforcing driver licensing strictly, thereby reducing potential risks associated with unlicensed drivers on the road. Opponents, however, criticize the bill for potentially criminalizing undocumented immigrants who rely on cars for transportation, raising concerns about fairness and equality under the law.

Contention

A notable point of contention within the discussions around HB 2620 involves the implications for undocumented immigrants. Critics express concerns that the bill's stringent measures would disproportionately affect this demographic, potentially leading to increased vulnerability and discrimination. Additionally, there are discussions regarding the adequacy of penalties imposed for vehicular offenses and the consequences of stricter enforcement measures on communities that already face challenges related to transportation accessibility.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB408

In miscellaneous provisions, further providing for the offenses of homicide by vehicle while driving under influence and aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence.

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 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 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 HB2431

In registration of vehicles, further providing for vehicles exempt from registration; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for persons exempt from licensing.

PA HB379

In registration of vehicles, further providing for vehicles exempt from registration; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for persons exempt from licensing.

PA SB774

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

PA SB1116

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

PA HB1615

In licensing of drivers, further providing for grading, for penalties and for prior offenses; and establishing the Driving Under the Influence Treatment Program.

PA SB998

In rules of the road in general, further providing for racing on highways; in enforcement, further providing for disposition of impounded vehicles, combinations and loads; in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for subsequent convictions of certain offenses; imposing penalties; and making editorial changes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.