A Resolution designating the month of April 2026 as "Distracted Driving Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 15 co-sponsors

Designates April 2026 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to promote education and public campaigns on safer driving behaviors.

Adopted

Summary of Bill HR 439 (2025-2026 Session, Pennsylvania)

Note: This summary describes the bill as introduced and proceed through related actions in the Pennsylvania legislature. The bill designates April 2026 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

1) Purpose and Intent

The primary aim is to designate a specific observance: April 2026 shall be proclaimed “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The measure is intended to raise public awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and promote safer driving practices through education and outreach.

2) Key Provisions and Changes

Official Designation: The bill directs the designation of April 2026 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

Public Education and Outreach (implied): While the text provided focuses on the designation, such resolutions typically encourage state agencies, local governments, and community organizations to engage in awareness campaigns, traffic safety education, and related activities during the designated month.

Administrative/Procedural Aspects: As a resolution, it does not create new regulatory requirements or funding mechanisms by itself; it serves as a formal expression of the General Assembly’s intent and may prompt state agencies or partners to coordinate educational efforts during the month.

3) Who or What Would Be Affected

General Public: Drivers and road users in Pennsylvania, who would be encouraged to participate in awareness activities and to adopt safer driving behaviors.

State Agencies and Local Governments: Encouraged to promote and participate in Distracted Driving Awareness Month activities (e.g., public campaigns, events, and educational programs).

Organizations and Advocates: Traffic safety groups, schools, employers, and community organizations may align activities with the designated month.

4) Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Legislative Path: The bill progressed through standard committee and chamber actions, with amendments considered during its course. Final actions included passage and formal adoption as part of the state’s official recognition.

Timeline: The designation applies specifically to April 2026, marking a one-month observance. The bill’s status indicates it was enacted and subsequently received executive acknowledgement (as is typical for resolutions designating observances).

Additional Context

Political and Policy Context: The bill aligns with ongoing traffic safety efforts to address distracted driving, which includes driving while using mobile devices, grooming, eating, or other activities that impair safe driving.

Non-Binding Nature: As a concurrent resolution or formal designation, the bill does not impose new prohibitions or fiscal obligations; rather, it expresses the General Assembly’s support for awareness and education during the designated month.

If you’d like, I can compare this bill to similar Distracted Driving Awareness Month designations in other states, or provide a plain-language one-page explainer suitable for a public-facing newsletter.