News Release
For Immediate Release
March 3, 2008
Contact:
Aaron Zappia
(215) 657-7700

Senator Greenleaf to Introduce Legislation Providing a Safe Ride for Intoxicated Patrons

Greenleaf's Plan Would Reduce DUI Arrests, Protect Others on the Road

HARRISBURG—In an effort to curb DUI arrests in Pennsylvania and keep roads safe form dangerous, intoxicated drivers, State Senator Stewart J. Greenleaf (R - Bucks / Montgomery) has introduced legislation establishing a statewide SafeRide Home Program to help patrons avoid getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol.   

Under the legislation, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) would be required to create a SafeRide Home Program throughout the state.  The program would be funded through a fee assessed by the PLCB on liquor licensees that serve alcohol by the drink.  To help implement the program, the PLCB may work in collaboration with other state and local government agencies and private organizations.   

According to Senator Greenleaf, while the General Assembly has enacted numerous laws cracking down on drunk driving, and Pennsylvania State Police and municipal police have aggressively enforced the laws to prevent and deter drinking and driving, we are still seeing thousands of Pennsylvanians getting behind the wheel while under the influence.  

According to Crash Facts and Statistics issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, alcohol-related crashes increased from 13,179 in 2005 to 13,616 in 2006.  Alcohol related deaths in 2006 were 36% of the total traffic deaths, the same as in 2005.  Pennsylvania State Police enforcement statistics for 2005 showed that DUI arrests totaling 13,406 had increased by nearly 100 from 2004. 

Wisconsin enacted a similar law in 1999 which also created a SafeRide program.  An analysis in 2004 concluded that the program helped to avoid alcohol-related crashes that would have resulted in over $1 million in economic loss. 

In Aspen, Colorado, a similar program has been in place since 1983 providing a ride home for those who have no other way to avoid getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.   

"I believe that this program has the potential to be just as successful in Pennsylvania as it has been in other states," said Senator Greenleaf.  "Law enforcement is doing a fine job, but I believe we are in need of a program that gives patrons a real alternative to getting home when they have had too much to drink.