HARRISBURG — Eight new bills with potential day-to-day impacts for Commonwealth residents have been signed into law by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro .
Senate Bill 298, which legalizes doorless driving for certain vehicles is one of these. Previously, Pennsylvania was the only state prohibiting this practice, except for off-road driving. The new law allows vehicles with manufacturer-installed removable doors to be driven without them, provided they still have side mirrors and optional net, tube, or half doors. State Sen. Devlin Robinson (R-Bridgeville), who sponsored the bill, emphasized that it aligns with safety standards important to both residents and law enforcement.
House Bill 2301 introduces a permanent Distracted Driving Awareness Registration Plate. Initially set to expire in 2025, the plate can now be purchased for $40 plus the registration fee. The funds raised will support public education on the dangers of distracted driving. The bill received overwhelming support in both legislative chambers.
House Bill 829, sponsored by Representative Matthew Gergely (D-McKeesport), provides increased flexibility in hiring for liquor licensees. This law allows employees of distributors or importing distributors to work at other licensed establishments, offering a way to address inflationary pressures on household budgets. The bill was passed with bipartisan support.
House Bill 1664 aligns Pennsylvania with other states regarding virtual credit card payments by medical insurers. The legislation mandates that insurers provide alternative payment options, allowing practitioners to choose the method that best suits them. This bill aims to reduce the financial burden on medical practices, which often face high transaction fees with virtual payments.
House Bill 1716 clarifies shareholder rights under Title 15, which governs corporate and unincorporated associations in Pennsylvania. This minor adjustment is designed to support minority shareholders. The bill passed unanimously in both the House and Senate.
Senate Bill 1231 modifies rules for directed trusts, simplifying non-judicial settlements and reducing administrative costs. This change aims to make more trust income available for beneficiaries, including family members and charities. The legislation passed without opposition.
Senate Bill 1092, introduced by Senators John DiSanto (R-Harrisburg) and Sharif Street (D-Philadelphia), updates state law to align with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ model legislation. It increases the allowable value of non-cash gifts from insurers to consumers from $100 to $125, provided they are related to insurance coverage and offered non-discriminatorily. The bill passed unanimously.
