Memo to PA House of Representatives

The Pennsylvania Association of Community Bankers (PACB), representing over 175 community banks in Pennsylvania, urges your favorable support of Senate Bill 957, P.N. 1720.

PACB, in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, developed this legislation with the prime sponsor, Senator Mike Waugh, to combat the growing trend of bank robberies occurring in this state. In the post 9/11 world we live in, the FBI which once took the primary role in bank robbery investigations and prosecutions, has delegated this role to the states. As a result, we believe Pennsylvania must update and strengthen our laws to meet this new responsibility.

Senate Bill 957 will give our law enforcement authorities additional tools to combat this growing trend by making the robbery of a financial institution with a demand that does not contain a direct threat a felony of the second degree. This demand by the perpetrator can be in the form of either a spoken request or written note. It’s important to note that in 2004, 70% of bank robberies were committed with a note.

As indicated, Senate Bill 957 was developed in conjunction with the banking industry with heavy input and shaping by law enforcement officials. We would deeply appreciate your support of Senate Bill 957 when it comes before the full House for a vote. The legislation was approved by the House Judiciary Committee prior to the summer recess. Please feel free to contact me, Rick Cessar, or Dave Transue, if we can be of any assistance to you on this issue or any other matter related to community banks.