The price of citations in Pennsylvania are going up.
Traffic violations, speeding tickets, and DUI — it’s all getting more expensive.
And, that’s thanks to the new transportation law signed by Governor Tom Corbett in November.
The idea is that over the span of 5 years, the money collected from those who break the law on the road will contribute to revamping roads and bridges here in Pennsylvania.. but police have a different perspective.
This statewide change is in full effect – so be aware when you put yourself behind the wheel.
“Additions are being made to existing surcharges that are on various moving violations,” says PennDot spokesperson, Rich Kirkpatrick.
Surcharges are extra fees that are already in the state motor vehicle code.
It’s in addition to the fine and court costs.
And that’s what’s totaling a bigger bill for you.
The law — Act 89 will generate 2.3 billion dollars in revenue.
And part of that money comes from people caught running red lights, and driving under the influence.
But it’s the police officers who aren’t happy about handing over a ticket with a heftier fine.
“This charge and that charge increased, it does come across as if we’re doing the legislatures work by generating revenue for whatever fund the cost is designated for,” says York Area Regional Police Sgt. Jeff Dunbar.
Sgt. Jeff Dunbar calls this hypocritical of lawmakers.
But he as well as all other lawmakers in Pennsylvania don’t have a choice on how much they charge.
“The bottom line comes down to when people do – when I pull them over and they do get a ticket, sometimes I’ve said to them just think about all the times you didn’t get caught doing this, you get caught one time, think before you do it again,” says Sgt. Dunbar.
On average fines are going up about 25 dollars.