Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB998

Introduced
12/8/23  
Refer
12/8/23  
Engrossed
4/30/24  
Refer
5/1/24  

Caption

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.

Impact

The proposed changes are intended to strengthen public safety by reducing the instances of racing and dangerous driving behavior. By imposing more severe consequences for racing and habitual traffic offenses, the bill seeks to hold drivers accountable and minimize risks for other road users. Additionally, the enforcement provisions for impounding vehicles that have been involved in racing-related offenses suggest a push towards more proactive measures in managing traffic violations and maintaining order on Pennsylvania's highways.

Summary

Senate Bill 998 (SB998) aims to amend various provisions within Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically focusing on the rules of the road. The bill introduces stricter penalties for racing on highways, imposes new rules regarding the disposition of impounded vehicles, and enhances penalties for repeated traffic offenses. It codifies various definitions and penalties to deter reckless driving behaviors commonly associated with racing and drifting, primarily on public roads.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB998 appears to be supportive among lawmakers who see it as a necessary measure to enhance public safety. The absence of significant opposition during the voting process, with a unanimous vote of 25-0 in favor of amendments, indicates a collective agreement on the importance of curbing reckless driving behaviors. While the motivations generally focus on safety and accountability, some potential concerns about the effect on vehicle owners' rights and the implications of repeated impoundments may arise during discussions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's approach to habitual offenders, particularly regarding repeated violations which may lead to more stringent penalties and vehicle impoundments. There may be concerns about how these policies could affect individuals disproportionately, particularly those with economic hardships. Moreover, the provisions for impounding vehicles used in commission of racing may raise questions about due process and the owners’ rights, especially when a vehicle is deemed unclaimed after a short period.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2266

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.

PA HB196

In penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for subsequent convictions of certain offenses.

PA HB1708

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; in other required equipment, further providing for general requirements for other vehicles transporting school children; and making editorial changes.

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 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 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 HB2620

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.

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 SB509

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in rules of the road in general, further providing for maximum speed limits, providing for maximum speed limits enforced by local law enforcement officers with RADAR and further providing for speed timing devices; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.