title
WHEREAS, street racing has become more popular on City of Pittsburgh community streets and has become incredibly dangerous to our citizens. It could and has put innocent people’s lives in danger; and
body
WHEREAS, early in June 2023, an illegal street racing event in Philadelphia led to an incident where a driver struck two state troopers with his vehicle which ended in tragedy. Similar incidents have happened in Bucks and Allegheny Counties; and,
WHEREAS, the incident in the city of Philadelphia prompted lawmakers to evaluate their laws related to street racing which also affects the City of Pittsburgh. Senate Bill 998 is modeled after the city of Philadelphia and their proposal to deal with these dangerous events; and,
WHEREAS, currently in Title 75 (Vehicles), there is a crime for street racing. Senate Bill 998 would increase the current fine for street racing from $250 up to $2,000 per violation. On the second violation, the driver’s vehicle will be taken away to stop them from using it in future street races; and,
WHEREAS, many of these illegal races are organized on social media as “meet up” events and include many different drivers. Senate Bill 998 will also hold those who organize the event accountable; and,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby urge the Senate to support Senate Bill 998 and when passed, we urge for increased local enforcement before more people, including law enforcement officers, are victims of vehicular tragedies; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh supports Senate Bill 998.