SB 1296
An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in commercial drivers, further providing for purpose and construction of chapter, providing for English proficiency standard and further providing for disqualification; and imposing penalties.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends Pennsylvania’s vehicle laws to establish an English proficiency standard for commercial motor vehicle drivers. Drivers must demonstrate the ability to converse, understand traffic signs, respond to inquiries, and complete reports in English. Violations of this standard will result in fines and a one-year disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle. The bill also outlines penalties for employers and contractors whose drivers violate the English proficiency requirement, and establishes procedures for seizing registration plates and impounding vehicles in violation.
Key provisions
- Establishes an English proficiency standard for commercial motor vehicle drivers.
- Requires drivers to demonstrate the ability to converse, understand traffic signs, and respond to inquiries in English.
- Imposes fines and a one-year disqualification for violations of the English proficiency standard.
- Creates penalties for employers and contractors whose drivers violate the standard.
- Allows for the seizure of registration plates and impoundment of vehicles in violation.
- Specifies procedures for notifying employers and cargo owners of violations.
- Defines misdemeanor penalties for violations, including potential fines and jail time.
- States that federal law prevails in case of conflicts.
Who is affected
- Commercial motor vehicle drivers
- Employers of commercial motor vehicle drivers
- Contractors employing commercial motor vehicle drivers
- The Department of Transportation
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Patrick Stefano
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