Apr. 17, 2019
HARRISBURG – State Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) is hoping the “third time’s a charm” when it comes to her legislation that would provide civil immunity for damages that result from entry into a motor vehicle for the purpose of rescuing an individual.
“In two previous sessions, this legislation has advanced through the House and as far as the Senate Judiciary Committee without drawing a single vote of opposition,” Boback said. “It’s time to move my bill to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk, especially in light of similar immunity being available when an attempt is made to rescue an animal.”
Under
House Bill 279, which passed the House unanimously last week, such immunity would be granted based on several criteria, including a belief that the individual is in imminent danger of suffering harm and is unable to exit the motor vehicle without assistance. A reasonable attempt to locate the driver and contact law enforcement or an emergency responder must also be made prior to entry.
“House Bill 279 is the final piece to a puzzle,” added Boback. “There should be no stumbling block that prevents giving the same right to a Good Samaritan trying to save a child that has already been given to a concerned citizen attempting to rescue an animal.”
Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Boback’s district office at 570-675-6000 or 570-836-4777.
Representative Karen Boback
117th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Scott Little
717.260.6137
slittle@pahousegop.com
RepBoback.com