Senate Approves Smith Legislation Allowing Use of Safety Cables When Towing Vehicles

October 7, 2026

HARRISBURG - State Rep. Brian Smith (R-Jefferson/Indiana) announced the Senate has unanimously approved his legislation to expand safety options for towing.

House Bill 71 would allow the use of safety cables when towing vehicles. When two vehicles are connected by certain hitches or devices, current law requires safety chains to be used to prevent the tow bar from hitting the ground should the tow bar fail or become disconnected.

"While safety chains get the job done, safety cables are lighter and easier to handle, while being just as strong and capable as conventional chains," Smith said. "Owning a transportation company for two decades has taught me that cables take up far less space and last longer than safety chains. While chains will still be permitted, we should give Pennsylvanians the choice to take advantage of this tool."

House Bill 71 now heads to the governor's desk. If signed, it will become law.

"As legislators, it's our job to listen to our constituents' issues, and come to Harrisburg to try to fix them," Smith said. "While there are many things that still need fixing, I'm glad to be able to get this done. We're one step away from preventing any more tickets being written over this."

Representative Brian Smith
66th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jake Gillespie
717.772.9834
www.RepSmith.com / Facebook.com/RepBrianSmith