12/17/07 - A bill in the House that has been put on hold until next year would prohibit 16- and 17-year-old drivers from having more than one passenger under 18. Drivers would face $25 fines for each passenger over the limit.
Exceptions would be made for relatives under 18 in vehicles.
Sponsored by Rep. Katherine Watson, R-Bucks, HB163 remained in the House Appropriations Committee when lawmakers started wrapping up the 2007 regular session. It can be brought back for consideration there during the session that begins Jan. 1.
The bill also would increase behind-the-wheel training requirements for aspiring drivers. Teens would be required to spend 65 hours practicing – up from 50 hours. Ten hours of nighttime practice and five hours of inclement weather instruction at the wheel would be required.
A separate provision in the bill would permit police to pull over vehicles with young drivers who aren’t buckled up. Passengers under 18 also would be required to buckle up. Drivers would face $10 fines for each seat-belt violation.

9/12/07 - The House Transportation Committee unanimously approved a bill that would prohibit 16- and 17-year-old drivers from having more than one passenger under 18. Drivers would face $25 fines for each passenger over the limit.
Exceptions would be made for relatives under 18 in vehicles.
Sponsored by Rep. Katherine Watson, R-Bucks, HB163 also would increase behind-the-wheel training requirements for aspiring drivers. Teens would be required to spend 65 hours practicing – up from 50 hours. Ten hours of nighttime practice and five hours of inclement weather instruction at the wheel would be required.
A separate provision in the bill would permit police to pull over vehicles with young drivers who aren’t buckled up. Passengers under 18 also would be required to buckle up. Drivers would face $10 fines for each seat-belt violation.
For bill status, call (717) 787-6732.