Senator Tracy Pennycuick introduced legislation on March 10 to raise penalties for school bus drivers who operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or a combination of both.
The proposed bill aims to address concerns about student safety during transportation to and from school and related events. Pennycuick said, “We must do all that we can to protect children, especially as they are transported to and from school and school-sponsored events.” She cited a recent incident in her legislative district where 54 students were transported by a driver who tested positive for marijuana and had a blood alcohol content of 0.331%. State law sets the threshold at 0.02% for school bus drivers and 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. The driver is facing multiple felony charges including driving under the influence, child endangerment, and reckless endangerment.
Pennycuick has a background in public service through her military career and participation on veteran boards, supporting veterans and law enforcement according to the official website. She served in the U.S. Army for 26 years, both on active duty and in the reserves, retiring as a lieutenant colonel after assignments such as Desert Shield/Desert Storm according to the official website.
Pennycuick began her military service as a combat medic before earning a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1987 according to the official website. She resides in Harleysville with her husband, also an Army veteran, their four grown children, and two grandchildren according to the official website.
She was elected to the Pennsylvania Senate in 2022 after serving previously in the General Assembly according to the official website.
The legislation reflects ongoing efforts by lawmakers like Pennycuick to strengthen protections for students using public transportation.
