SB 728 proposes to amend Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. This bill would suspend the imposition of specific taxes currently collected for highway maintenance and construction. If enacted, these taxes, outlined in sections 9502 and 9004(b) of Title 75, would no longer be imposed after the bill's effective date. This change would directly affect individuals and entities currently paying these taxes related to vehicles and infrastructure funding.
SB 735 amends Pennsylvania's Vehicle Code concerning chemical testing for driving under the influence (DUI). It expands the types of impairment for which other evidence can be introduced in DUI cases to explicitly include drugs alone, or drugs in combination with alcohol. A key provision allows testimony from a certified "drug recognition expert" to be admissible as evidence of impairment in judicial proceedings. This bill defines what constitutes a "drug recognition expert" and directly affects drivers suspected of impairment and the legal process for DUI cases.
HB 1504 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code to clarify and update several traffic rules. It specifically changes how drivers may overtake vehicles on the left, adds rules for safely passing pedestrians on highways, and adjusts penalties for violations related to pedestrians and special vehicles. The bill also updates the definition of "careless driving" under general offense provisions. These changes directly affect drivers, pedestrians, and law enforcement across Pennsylvania by modifying standard road behavior and enforcement procedures.
HB 971 prohibits vehicles from stopping, standing, or parking in designated bicycle lanes, with an exception for temporarily stopping to avoid emergency vehicles. This rule directly affects drivers who might park or stop in bicycle lanes, such as in urban areas or near bike paths. The bill amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code (Title 75) by adding this specific prohibition to the existing "rules of the road" section. The amendment takes effect 60 days after enactment.
HB 709 creates a tax credit for businesses that provide free, publicly accessible parking spaces for trucks (motor carriers) on eligible property. To qualify, businesses must create at least five designated parking spaces (each 10 feet wide by 80 feet long, with concrete or asphalt) on property that is at least three acres, zoned commercial or industrial, within one mile of a designated highway corridor (Tier 1 or Tier 2). The property must also include adequate lighting and a public bathroom. Businesses must maintain these parking spaces and their operations in Pennsylvania for five years to receive the credit. The credit can be applied against certain tax liabilities under Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code.
Senate Bill 696 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code regarding special speed limitations in school zones. The bill clarifies that the 15 miles per hour speed limit within a school zone can be enforced during regular school hours. This enforcement is permissible regardless of whether students are allowed to walk to and from the school located within that zone. The change aims to ensure consistent application of school zone speed limits based on a school's operational hours, affecting drivers in those areas.
SB 824 updates Pennsylvania's vehicle code to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. It requires vehicles parked near on-street pedestrian plazas or bike lanes to position wheels within 12 inches of the buffer zone between the lane and parking, with exceptions for school buses. The bill also mandates that cyclists use designated bike paths when marked by traffic signs, unless unsafe. Violations carry fines of $15 for general parking, $50-$200 for disability spot misuse, and $100-$300 for ignoring bike path requirements. Local governments can establish additional parking rules for these areas.
HB 1524 amends the Public Transportation Assistance Fund provisions within Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971. The bill revises how funds are managed or allocated for public transportation programs, directly affecting state transportation agencies and public transit providers receiving these funds. It modifies specific sections of the existing tax code governing this dedicated fund. The bill was recently referred to the Transportation committee for further consideration. (3 sentences)
Senate Resolution 93 designates May 2025 as "Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. This resolution aims to promote awareness among all road users about safely sharing the road with motorcyclists and to encourage motorcycle safety practices.
HB 1587 requires drivers to obey school crossing guards' signals at school zones, mandating they stop within 10-30 feet of the guard or crosswalk and remain stopped until the guard signals to proceed. It directly affects drivers near schools during children’s arrival/departure times, with violations punishable by a $250 fine plus a $35 surcharge. The surcharge funds Pennsylvania’s School Bus Safety Grant Program, which supports safety initiatives. The law takes effect 180 days after enactment and defines "school crossing guard" as an appointed person managing traffic during school hours.
