South Delco News

Rep. Craig Williams, a former federal prosecutor representing Chester and Delaware counties, has announced the enactment of House Bill 773, now known as Act 59 of 2022 or "Deana’s Law." The legislation is named after Deana Eckman, a Delaware County resident who died in a head-on collision caused by a drunk driver with five prior DUI convictions.

Deana’s Law modifies the Pennsylvania Criminal Code to mandate consecutive sentences for habitual DUI offenders rather than concurrent ones. Rep. Williams stated, “As a former prosecutor, I was grateful for the opportunity to work with colleagues in the House and Senate to memorialize Deana Eckman with a law that will save lives.” He emphasized that consecutive sentencing provides prosecutors with stronger tools against repeat offenders.

Williams shared a personal connection to the tragedy through his friend Larry Weathers, who was present at the scene of Eckman's accident. He remarked, “One of my closest friends, Larry Weathers, was at the scene reaching into the vehicle to hold Deana’s hand as she passed away. It is a memory that will never leave him.”

The law aims not only to honor Eckman's memory but also to prevent future tragedies by addressing recidivism among substance abuse crimes. Williams expressed his commitment to collaborating with communities and lawmakers on effective prosecution and treatment strategies for first-time offenders.

Williams acknowledged contributions from former State Sen. Tom Killion and Rep. Chris Quinn for their foundational work on this bill during the 2019-2020 session and thanked Sen. John Kane for supporting its passage in the current session. He noted it was "a truly bipartisan local effort" that enabled Deana's Law's enactment.

For further information or comments from Rep. Craig Williams regarding Deana's Law, contact media representative David Foster at 267-207-0207 or dfoster@pahousegop.com.