In rules of the road in general, further providing for maximum speed limits.
Summary
SB 924 would amend Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code to establish a statewide maximum speed limit of 35 miles per hour on dirt and gravel roads. The bill adds a new paragraph to the existing maximum speed limits section of Title 75, which already sets general speed limits and allows for lower speeds where special hazards exist. Under the proposal, driving faster than 35 mph on a dirt and gravel road would be unlawful unless another provision or posted limit applies within the broader framework of the traffic code.
The bill is a targeted roadway-safety measure rather than a broad transportation overhaul. It would take effect 60 days after enactment and would directly affect drivers using unpaved roads, as well as local and state enforcement agencies responsible for speed-limit compliance. Because it amends the statewide maximum speed statute, it would create a uniform legal ceiling for dirt and gravel roads across Pennsylvania, potentially superseding more variable local practices where no specific limit is posted.
Impact
SB 924 would amend Title 75, section 3362(a), by adding a new statewide maximum speed limit for dirt and gravel roads. This would change Pennsylvania law by making 35 mph the maximum lawful speed on those roads, subject to the general safe-driving rule and any special hazard conditions. The practical effect would be on motorists, law enforcement, and road managers in rural and unpaved-road areas, with possible implications for traffic citations, signage, and public safety enforcement.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears straightforward and safety-oriented, with a narrow focus on regulating speeds on dirt and gravel roads. The absence of recorded controversy suggests the bill may be relatively uncontentious at this stage, though that cannot be confirmed without hearing or vote data.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is whether a uniform 35 mph limit is appropriate for all dirt and gravel roads, given differences in road condition, width, traffic volume, and local geography. Supporters would likely frame the bill as a safety and consistency measure, while critics might argue that a statewide cap could be too rigid for some roads or that local authorities should retain more discretion. No specific stakeholders or objections are identified in the provided legislative history.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in rules of the road in general, further providing for maximum speed limits, providing for maximum speed limits enforced by local law enforcement officers with RADAR and further providing for speed timing devices; and imposing penalties.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in rules of the road in general, further providing for maximum speed limits, providing for maximum speed limits enforced by local law enforcement officers with RADAR and further providing for speed timing devices; and imposing penalties.
In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for speed timing devices; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.
In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.
In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; in other required equipment, further providing for general requirements for other vehicles transporting school children; and making editorial changes.