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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | October 27, 2023 02:53 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Ed Neilson and Rep. Kathleen C. Tomlinson |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Keeping Public Transportation Workers Safe |
| Public transportation is a vital part of every community, whether urban, suburban, or rural. Countless residents across the state use public transportation to complete their daily tasks. In turn, transit operators keep public transportation lines running smoothly across the state. Sadly, bad actors can dangerously interfere with or assault transit operators. This not only disrupts public transportation but puts operators, passengers, and pedestrians at risk. We intend to introduce companion legislation amending the Vehicle Code to add the new offense of “interference with operator or movement of a bus or mass transit vehicle.” A violation of this new offense would be classified as a felony of the third degree. If the violation occurs in conjunction with an aggravated assault, it would be classified as a felony of the first degree. This legislation is supported by transit agencies like SEPTA and will help safeguard transit operators, passengers, and pedestrians. We need to make it clear that interfering or assaulting our transit operators is serious and unacceptable. It is time that new offenses be created to protect the hardworking people who keep our residents moving. Please join us in co-sponsoring this legislation. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. |