FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2010
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Senate Transportation Committee to Hold Hearing On Legislation to Increase Penalties for Hit-and-Runs 

The Senate Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 11 in Philadelphia to hear testimony on legislation currently before the Senate that would increase fines and prison sentences for those convicted of fleeing from accidents involving injury or death.  The hearing will be held in the Marian Hall Conference Center of Nazareth Hospital, located at 2601 Holme Avenue, in Philadelphia. 

Senate Transportation Committee Chairman John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) said the panel will seek input on three bills that would strengthen penalties in hit-and run-cases. 

"If we want to deter people from leaving the scene of an accident we have to make the penalties stronger," Rafferty said.  "Drivers who flee the scene of an accident, leaving victims injured or dead, should be held accountable for their actions." 

Among those scheduled to testify are representative of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, the State Police and the Philadelphia Police Department.  Two family members of hit-and-run victims will also talk about the need for tougher laws.    

CONTACT:

Mark Meyer
(717) 787-1398