Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2392

Introduced

4/16/26

Refer

4/16/26

Caption

In operation of boats, further providing for the offense of operating watercraft under influence of alcohol or controlled substance.

Impact

The anticipated impact of HB 2392 revolves around increasing accountability for individuals engaging in boating under the influence. The amendments to the existing law not only increase fines but also extend the penalties associated with repeat offenses. The bill specifies a range of punitive actions that escalate with the number of offenses, thus aiming to detour individuals from engaging in such behavior. Enhancing public safety on waterways is a primary objective of this legislation, with advocates arguing that stricter penalties will help prevent accidents and fatalities caused by impaired boating.

Summary

House Bill 2392 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending Title 30 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically concerning the operation of boats under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The bill introduces several provisions that strengthen penalties for individuals caught operating watercraft while impaired. Notably, it stipulates that individuals who have completed an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program for past offenses would be prohibited from operating any watercraft for a period of ten years following program completion if they are convicted of another related offense within that timeframe. This change is intended to reduce repeat offenses and enhance boating safety across the state.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked debate regarding the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals. Critics argue that the extended penalties may unfairly impact individuals who have achieved rehabilitation and could hinder their reintegration into society. Some advocates for reform in the criminal justice system express concerns that the bill could disproportionately affect marginalized communities, emphasizing the need for support systems rather than punitive measures. As discussions continue, stakeholders are evaluating the potential benefits of reduced incidents of impaired boating against the implications for offenders' rights and rehabilitation.

Latest PA HB2392 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB2392

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1615

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for notice of acceptance of Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for homicide by vehicle while driving under influence; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for the offense of driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance, for grading, for penalties, for ignition interlock, for prior offenses and for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition.

PA SB63

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB878

In driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions, for driving under influence of alcohol or controlled substance and for authorized use not a defense.

PA HB1862

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for chemical testing to determine amount of alcohol or controlled substance and repealing provisions relating to ignition interlock limited license; in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for definitions and for ignition interlock, providing for ignition interlock driver's license, for ignition interlock driver's license issued during suspension period and for online services for ignition interlock driver's license and further providing for prior offenses, for the offense of illegally operating a motor vehicle not equipped with ignition interlock and for requirements for driving under influence offenders; and making editorial changes.

PA HB1032

Clarifies references to substances applicable to operating a motor vehicle under the influence

PA SB697

In sentencing, further providing for sentence of total confinement; in licensing of drivers, further providing for the offense of driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and for ignition interlock limited license; and, in driving after imbibing alcohol or utilizing drugs, further providing for ignition interlock.

PA SB735

In licensing of drivers, further providing for chemical testing to determine amount of alcohol or controlled substance.

PA SB296

Uniform Rules of the Road; operation of a school bus while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; establish the offense

PA SB0919

Traffic control: driver license; suspension of a driver license for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating or alcoholic liquor or a controlled substance; require. Amends secs. 319b & 319d of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.319b & 257.319d) & adds secs. 319h & 319i.

PA SB917

In serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle while driving under influence.