Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1200

Introduced
5/17/24  
Refer
5/17/24  

Caption

In licensing of drivers, providing for private driver education and training schools; imposing a penalty; and making a repeal.

Impact

The bill's implementation would lead to the establishment of minimum curriculum standards for driver education and would require all private driver education instructors to be licensed by the state. Additionally, it introduces provisions such as multiple testing locations for prospective instructors and an electronic version of the instructor examination, which are expected to streamline the licensing process. The repeal of the previous Private Driver Education or Training School Act is also part of this legislative change, underlying a transition towards a more centralized and standardized approach.

Summary

Senate Bill 1200 aims to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to establish a regulatory framework for private driver education and training schools. The bill mandates that the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation create standards for the licensing of these schools and their instructors, with the intention of enhancing the quality and consistency of driver education across the state. By providing a structured program, the bill seeks to ensure that prospective drivers receive reliable training from qualified educators.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding SB1200 appears to be supportive among legislators who see it as a necessary step toward improving driver safety and education standards. There is an acknowledgment of the importance of well-regulated training for new drivers, which may enhance overall road safety. However, certain concerns could arise about the transition and the potential impact on existing private education providers, who may need to adapt to new regulations and standards mandated by the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention focus on the balance of regulation versus the autonomy of private driving schools. Some stakeholders may argue that stringent regulations could hinder smaller schools or those not equipped to meet new licensing requirements, potentially reducing competition in the market. Additionally, the enforcement of penalties for non-compliance introduces a dimension of concern regarding small providers and their ability to operate within the new framework.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1700

In licensing of drivers, providing for communication impairment designation; and imposing penalties.

PA SB802

In licensing of drivers, providing for communication impairment designation; and imposing penalties.

PA SB833

Providing for consumer choice billing; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

PA HB2345

Providing for consumer choice billing; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

PA SB65

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1444

Providing for association health plans; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

PA HB555

Providing for association health plans; imposing penalties; and making repeals.

PA SB897

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

PA SB263

Providing for military education scholarship account; and imposing penalties.

PA SB304

Providing for military education scholarship account; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

MI SB0356

Vehicles: driver training; instructor of a driver education instructor preparation course; modify requirements to become. Amends sec. 23 of 2006 PA 384 (MCL 256.643).

CA AB248

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IA HSB283

A bill for an act requiring the board of educational examiners to issue certificates when directed by the board of directors of a school district to individuals who have attained a minimum of a baccalaureate degree and who have expertise or significant professional experience in a subject area that allows the individual to provide instruction in that subject area to students enrolled in the school district in grades nine through twelve.

NM HB206

Secondary Instructors Act

OR SB695

Relating to funding for crisis response services; declaring an emergency.

AZ HB2199

Cosmetology instructors

OK SB721

Firearm training; clarifying language; directing certain approval; removing certain time inclusion; removing certain exemption requirement. Effective date.

IL SB1960

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