HARRISBURG, PA — Aimed at improving road safety, the Pennsylvania General Assembly this week passed Senate Bill 37, legislation that will make it illegal to use hand-held devices while operating a motor vehicle in the state. The bill, now awaiting Governor Josh Shapiro’s signature, represents a significant step forward in the fight against distracted driving, an issue that has eclipsed driving under the influence as a leading cause of vehicular accidents.
State Rep. Ed Neilson, chair of the PA House Transportation Committee, heralded the bill’s passage as a critical achievement in addressing the dangers of distracted driving with the seriousness it warrants. “The data shows that distracted driving is the cause for more crashes than driving under the influence now,” Neilson emphasized, drawing parallels to historical efforts to combat drunk driving through stringent penalties.
Senate Bill 37 encompasses comprehensive amendments to Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. These amendments include revising definitions, licensing protocols, rules of the road, and enforcement measures to incorporate prohibitions against the use of interactive mobile devices by drivers. Notably, the bill introduces a summary offense penalty for violations, imposing a $50 fine without affecting points on the driver’s license. Additionally, it mandates educational initiatives aimed at young drivers, including inclusion of distracted driving material in learning programs and at least one question related to the topic on the driver’s exam.
The significance of this legislation extends beyond legal parameters; it underscores a commitment to safeguarding public health and safety by acknowledging the profound risks associated with distracted driving. Neilson remarked, “Today, Pennsylvania joins 26 states, including all of our border states, in recognizing the dangers that come with distracted driving.”
Named Paul Miller’s Law, in memory of a young man whose life was tragically cut short by a distracted driver, the bill carries a deeply personal significance for many Pennsylvanians. The Millers, Paul’s grieving parents, have been vocal advocates for the legislation, tirelessly working to ensure that their son’s death leads to meaningful change. Their advocacy highlights the human cost of distracted driving and the urgency of legislative action to prevent further loss of life.
The passage of Senate Bill 37 marks a commendable stride towards enhancing road safety and reflects a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive strategies to combat distracted driving. By coupling penalties with educational efforts, Pennsylvania aims not only to deter risky behavior but also to cultivate a culture of responsible driving among its citizens. With the anticipated signing into law by Governor Shapiro, the state moves closer to realizing a vision where roads are safer for all who traverse them, honoring the memory of Paul Miller and the countless others affected by distracted driving.
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