PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB697

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB697

Introduced
4/30/25  

Caption

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock.

Impact

If enacted, SB 697 would strengthen penalties related to DUI offenses and driving under suspended privileges. The focus on ignition interlock systems aims to enhance public safety by reducing instances of impaired driving. Moreover, it would potentially provide a more standardized approach to sentencing for DUI-related offenses. This amendment aligns with national trends in criminal justice reform, aiming to diminish recidivism among offenders while balancing public safety concerns. By mandating ignition interlock devices, the bill also attempts to facilitate responsible driving among individuals with previous offenses.

Summary

Senate Bill 697 seeks to amend Pennsylvania's laws concerning sentencing and driver licensing, particularly for offenses involving driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). One of the primary changes proposed in the bill is the introduction of determinate sentencing for certain offenses, allowing courts to impose a predetermined maximum confinement of up to 90 days for summary offenses. It also addresses penalties for individuals who drive with suspended or revoked operating privileges, establishing fines and imprisonment for first and subsequent offenses. The bill emphasizes the use of ignition interlock systems, which are devices installed in vehicles to prevent individuals from operating them while impaired.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 697 appears divided among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step towards reducing impaired driving incidents, thereby making roads safer for all citizens. They believe that stricter penalties and the implementation of ignition interlocks act as significant deterrents to repeat offenders. In contrast, some critics express concern that the bill's overly punitive measures may disproportionately impact low-income individuals who may struggle to afford fines or the installation of ignition interlock systems. The debate underscores the balance that must be struck between enhancing public safety and addressing the needs of offenders.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential economic burden fines and costs associated with ignition interlock devices may impose on lower-income individuals. Critics argue that such financial barriers could lead to further criminal activity, as individuals unable to comply with these financial requirements may choose to drive unlawfully. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of ignition interlock systems and whether they substantially reduce re-offense rates. The discussions illustrate the ongoing challenges legislators face in crafting balanced policies that promote safety while ensuring fair treatment of offenders.

Latest PA SB697 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session SB697

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB453

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock.

PA HB1712

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock, for prior offenses, for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, for drug and alcohol assessments and for mandatory sentencing and providing for substance monitoring program.

PA HB1290

In licensing of drivers, further providing for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for penalties, for ignition interlock and for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition.

PA SB363

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB1521

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing for drivers required to be licensed, for suspension of operating privilege, for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation and for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked, providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended for certain other offenses, for relief from administrative suspension and for relief from administrative suspension participation requirements; in fees, further providing for reinstatement of operating privilege or vehicle registration; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

PA SB1118

In magisterial district judges, further providing for adjudication alternative program; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege, for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation and for driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked, providing for driving while operating privilege is suspended for certain other offenses, for relief from administrative suspension and for relief from administrative suspension participation requirements; in fees, further providing for reinstatement of operating privilege or vehicle registration; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

PA HB983

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB1781

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for accelerated rehabilitative disposition and for drug and alcohol assessments.

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 HB1092

In commercial drivers, further providing for disqualification.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.