Saccone’s bill on license suspensions wins House OK
Legislation authored by state Rep. Rick Saccone, R-Elizabeth, that would end driver’s license suspensions for nondriving-related crimes has passed in the House and will go to the Senate for consideration.
The bill would remove the suspension penalty for nondriving drug convictions, purchase or consumption of liquor or tobacco of a minor, misrepresentation of age to secure liquor by any person younger than 21, carrying a false identification card, and failure to pay child support.
“I do agree with the fines and structure associated with these crimes, but I don’t believe the added penalty of a license suspension is warranted, nor does it do anything to curb behavior,” Saccone said in a news release. “The individual convicted of any non-driving offense would be better served by doing some community service and earning money to pay off fines and restitution.”
Saccone said the suspension penalty for nondriving offenses often takes away the offender’s ability to work, and could leave them dependent on government assistance in order to provide for their families.
“My bill would encourage Pennsylvanians to get to work, where they want to be, and allows them an opportunity to get off public assistance, which is costing the taxpayer a tremendous amount,” he said.