HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) to increase penalties for school bus drivers who get behind the wheel to transport children while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or a dangerous combination of both passed the Senate today by a vote of 45-5.
“Approximately 1.5 million children are transported on school buses every day in Pennsylvania, and parents and guardians must have confidence that their children are in capable hands,” said Pennycuick. “In the past, the General Assembly has acted to protect children from dangerous motorists when loading and unloading the school bus. Now, we must take action to discourage outrageous and potentially deadly behavior by school bus drivers.”
Senate Bill 1262 will create a new sentencing enhancement with the goal of deterring such irresponsible action. Pennycuick urged the state House of Representatives to vote on the bill and send it to the governor as soon as possible.
In the 24th legislative district, 54 school children were transported by a school bus driver who, according to the criminal investigation, tested positive for marijuana with a Blood Alcohol Content of 0.331%, even though state law sets a strict 0.02% threshold for school bus drivers and 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. The school bus driver faces numerous felony charges of Driving Under the Influence, child endangerment, and reckless endangerment.
CONTACT: Matthew Szuchyt 717-787-3110