Apr. 15, 2015
HARRISBURG – Legislative language drafted by Rep. Bryan Cutler (R-Peach Bottom) to increase regulation of the bail bonds industry was passed unanimously by the House Judiciary Committee this week.
House Bill 367 requires that bondsmen be licensed as insurance producers by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID). They would be required to secure the appointment of an insurer as assurance that they are financially able to cover the liability they assume.
“This legislation would provide accountability, professionalism and transparency for the practice of providing bail for those awaiting trial,” said Cutler. “It would promote a clean industry where the rules are the same throughout the Commonwealth.”
Additionally, the bill also allows county officials to petition the court to suspend or revoke the authority of a bail bondsman to do business in that county, or when necessary, petition the court to issue an order directing the PID to revoke the bail bondsman’s license statewide.
“For decades, the Commonwealth has had varying rules regarding this process. Sen. Richard Alloway and I have drafted legislation that would provide a uniform collection of rules to regulate this serious industry,” Cutler said. “It has been a pleasure to work with him, and I thank Alloway for drafting the companion bill,
Senate Bill 397.”
The bill now advances to the full House for consideration.
Representative Bryan Cutler
100th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
RepCutler.com /
Facebook.com/RepBryanCutler
Twitter.com/RepBryanCutler