Senate OKs Argall bill to protect consumers using moving companies

The Pennsylvania Senate approved a proposal written by Sen. David G. Argall (RSchuylkill/Berks) that would protect consumers utilizing household goods movers.

“We have an uneven playing field in Pennsylvania and this will make sure consumers are protected in the future,” Argall said. “In Pennsylvania, it is more advantageous to operate a household goods moving company illegally than it is to comply with the law. These illegal companies often lack the necessary insurance coverage to protect damaged goods during a move, leaving the consumer on the hook.”

Current law requires any household goods moving company to register with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. Forhire household goods movers must carry adequate insurance to protect property moved and workers compensation for their employees. Some movers are skirting the law by not registering with the PUC and not carrying adequate coverage for the goods they are transporting.

Argall’s bill would make it a punishable offense to perform an illegal move in the state with a $5,000 fine. Vehicles used in an illegal household goods move would be confiscated and registration would be suspended. Repeat offenders would be subject to a $10,000 fine. Revenue generated under the bill would be invested into future motor carrier enforcement through the PUC.

The bill only applies to commercial, for-hire entities.

The legislation moves to the House of Representatives.