Jun. 30, 2017
HARRISBURG – To help prevent injury and death of children trapped in hot cars, a bill introduced by Rep. Karen Boback (R-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Wyoming) that would provide civil immunity for any damage that may be done to the vehicle when forceful entry is necessary to rescue a child was passed unanimously out of the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.
“According to the organization KidsandCars.org, since the beginning of 2017, 12 children have died after being left in hot cars. And in Pennsylvania, our summer season is just beginning. We must remember these are defenseless babies and children – the statistics are devastating," said Boback.
House Bill 1152 would encourage Good Samaritans to act on behalf of children unable to escape an overheated vehicle.
“Even the best of parents or caregivers can unknowingly leave a sleeping baby or toddler in a car. My bill encourages passersby to take a second look, contact law enforcement, and step in to help when every second counts,” Boback continued.
The immunity only would apply when the person acts reasonably under the circumstances. Good Samaritans must have a good faith belief that the child is in imminent danger; they must have determined the vehicle is locked and there is no reasonable method for the child to be removed prior to forcibly entering the vehicle; and the person must have attempted to contact law enforcement.
The bill can now be considered by the full House.
Representative Karen Boback
117th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Morgan Dux
717.260.6695
mdux@pahousegop.com
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