From 2011 to 2016, about 149,000 people in Pennsylvania had their driver’s license suspended after being convicted of drug crimes that were unrelated to driving. That’s 149,000 people that had their job placed in jeopardy and their driver’s license taken away despite committing no vehicle-related crime.

Recently, however, PA lawmakers passed a law that will revoke the mandatory driver’s license suspensions in these scenarios. Many lawmakers noted these suspensions to be counterproductive, punitive, and disproportionately affecting communities with lower socioeconomic standing.

About the New License Suspensions Law

Pennsylvania House Bill 163 is to amend Titles 4 (Amusements), 18 (Crimes & Offenses), and 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. While the most notable portion of this act is the repeal of PA’s automatic license suspension for drug-related offenses, the act does repeal the suspension of a driver’s licenses in other circumstances including:

  • Carrying false identification
  • Underage purchase of tobacco
  • Underage purchase, possession, consumption, or transportation of alcohol

In addition, this new legislature passed with bipartisan agreement, which state Representative Rick Saccone was pleased about, saying, “there are times we can really come together to help people and solve problems.”

Current Implications of the License Suspensions Law

The charges listed in this bill all held mandatory driver’s license suspensions, dependent upon the crime committed. While the crimes committed were largely different, the suspensions individuals were charged with were the same. The suspension periods were as follows:

  • First offense, a six-month driver’s license suspension
  • Second offense, a one-year suspension
  • Third or subsequent offense, a two-year suspension

Furthermore, the bill does not act retroactively for individuals who lost their license before it was signed into law. However, it does eliminate the need for an individual who was convicted of a crime that is unrelated to driving or operating a vehicle in any capacity to have their license revoked.

Get Representation

If you’re charged with a crime and are looking for a criminal defense attorney in Doylestown, PA, call Keith J. Williams. He will fight vehemently for your case, working to get minimal or no sentencing for the crime you’re charged with.

Get a criminal defense attorney in Warminster, PA that fights for you — call Keith J. Williams today!