West Montgomery Times

HARRISBURG - Legislation aimed at safeguarding transit operators against assault has been successfully passed by the Senate, announced Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24). The bill, known as Senate Bill 977, seeks to deter assaults on transit operators by making it a serious crime to interfere with them while they are performing their duties.

Under the proposed legislation, interfering with an operator of any public transit vehicle would be classified as a felony of the third degree if it causes bodily injury. If the interference leads to serious bodily injury or death, the offense would be elevated to a felony of the first degree. The main objective of the bill is to ensure the safety of both operators and riders on public transit systems.

Sen. Tracy Pennycuick emphasized the importance of upholding safety on public transit systems, stating, "A key part of maintaining order is making it clear that if you interfere with transit operators, you face a serious penalty." The passage of this legislation aligns with the ongoing efforts of Senate Republicans to invest in infrastructure and enhance public safety.

With the Senate's approval, the bill will now proceed to the House of Representatives for further consideration. If passed in the House, it will then be sent to the governor for final approval before becoming law.

This legislation addresses a pressing issue faced by transit operators who often encounter challenging situations while carrying out their duties. By establishing clear consequences for those who interfere with transit operators, the bill aims to create a safer environment for both operators and passengers.

The proposed legislation has garnered support from various stakeholders who recognize the need for enhanced protection for transit operators. The bill is seen as a crucial step towards ensuring the well-being of those who provide essential transportation services in cities and suburbs.

As the bill moves forward in the legislative process, its supporters remain hopeful that it will receive bipartisan support and ultimately be signed into law. The protection and safety of transit operators are paramount, and this legislation represents a significant step towards achieving that goal.

For further information or inquiries about the bill, please contact Matt Szuchyt at (717) 787-3110.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://senatorpennycuick.com/2023/12/13/bill-to-safeguard-transit-operators-passes-senate/