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February 27, 2003
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Erickson Announces Bills to Aid Youth Activities
School activities, Little League Baseball to benefit.
Harrisburg – State Sen. Ted Erickson (R-26) is introducing two bills
aimed at removing obstacles to participation in sponsored youth
activities.
Senate Bill 310 would amend the law restricting the hours teenagers
can drive to make exceptions for school-related activities. Senate Bill
356 would waive the fee for criminal background checks administered on
Little League Baseball volunteers.
"Youth participation in afterschool activities, and adult involvement
in Little League Baseball are two things that should be encouraged, not
hindered," said Erickson. "These bills would amend two necessary,
successful laws to remove obstacles to such community involvement."
Erickson said a 1999 law prohibits young drivers – those holding a
"junior license" – from driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Senate Bill
310 would allow junior drivers to operate vehicles between 11 p.m. and 5
a.m. if they are doing so because of their involvement in a
school-related activity.
Pennsylvania law currently allows exceptions for young drivers who
are traveling because of work or volunteering as firefighters. However,
school-related activities that may require the student to drive home
after 11 p.m. -- such as play rehearsals or ice hockey practice -- are
not allowed as an exception.
"This has created real problems for some students and schools in the
Commonwealth," said Erickson.
Senate Bill 356 would waive the fee charged by police for criminal
history record checks of individuals who volunteer their time with
Little League Baseball. Little League Baseball, Inc. of Williamsport has
requested that background checks be provided for all volunteers.
"Since these individuals do not receive compensation for their time,
the fee could be a deterrent to their participation," said Erickson.
"Also, many of the volunteers are parents coaching their own children."
CONTACT: Chuck McDonald (717) 787-1350
