Transportation 2021-2022

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Monday, October 24, 2022 to consider the re-nomination of the Honorable Pasquale (Pat) Deon to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, immediately followed by consideration of House Bill 1307 and amendment. The votes were as follows:

Nomination of Pasquale (Pat) DeonPennsylvania Turnpike Commission (4-year term)

  • Voted out of the Committee with a FAVORABLE recommendation, by a vote a 13-1 (Senator L. Williams voted NO, stating she was not able to meet with nominee and hoped to do so prior to full Senate vote).

House Bill 1307 (Borowicz) – Increases the distance that a Multipurpose Agriculture Vehicle (ATVs or side-by-sides operated on farms) may travel on public roads from 5 miles to 10 miles.

    • A05699 (Langerholc) – Directs DCNR to establish a  pilot ATV trail area in and around Gallitzin State Forest.
    • Amendment A05699 was adopted in Committee by a vote of 9-5, with all Democratic Senators voting in the negative.

House Bill 1307, as amended, was reported from Committee by a vote of 9-1, with all Democratic Senators voting in the negative.


The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 to consider the following legislation: 

House Bill 722 (Rothman) – Increases the weight limit for electric vehicles from 80,000 pounds to 82,000 pounds to account for extra weight of the battery or battery pack in line with federal law.

  • House Bill 722, as committed, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0).

House Bill 1307 (Borowicz) – Increases the distance that a Multipurpose Agriculture Vehicle (ATVs or side-by-sides operated on farms) may travel on public roads from 5 miles to 10 miles.

    • A05699 (Langerholc) – Directs DCNR to establish a  pilot ATV trail area in and around Gallitzin State Forest.
  • House Bill 1307 and amendment was OVER.

House Bill 2398 (Oberlander) – Provides for the operation and regulation of highly-automated vehicles with or without a human driver.

    • A05734 (Langerholc) – Makes numerous changes to legislation to incorporate additional provisions related to liability, requirements of HAVs, and responsibilities of PennDOT. Also, adds language related to the offense of theft of a catalytic converter.
    • Amendment A05734 was adopted in Committee by a vote of 10-3, with Senators Brewster, Kane, and L. Williams voting in the negative.
  • House Bill 2398, as amended, was reported from Committee by a vote of 8-5, with all Democratic members voting in the negative.

House Bill 2632 (Delozier) – Directs PennDOT to contract with a private vendor to provide a specialty vehicle registration plate program.

  • House Bill 2632 was reported from Committee by a vote of 7-6, with all Democratic members along with Senator DiSanto voting in the negative.

House Bill 2637 (Benninghoff) – Designates the Private John W. Coble Memorial Bridge in Centre County.

    • A05731 (Langerholc) – Omnibus designation amendment.
    • Amendment A05734 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0).
  • House Bill 2637, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0).

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 to consider the following legislation: 

House Bill 521 (Stephens) – Establishes a continuous alcohol monitoring program for repeat DUI offenders as a condition of probation, parole, or bail at the court’s discretion. Additionally, makes changes in response to the ruling in Commonwealth v. Chichkin, along with clarifications to testing language.

    • A05509 (Langerholc) – Removes several changes in response to Commonwealth v. Chichkin, as well as adding provisions to address Commonwealth v. Eid and Birchfield v. North Dakota. Finally, the amendment also include new provisions regarding ignition interlock systems.
    • Amendment A05509 was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0)
  • House Bill 521, as amended, was reported from Committee by a vote of 11-3 with Senators Kane, Kearney, and L. Williams voting in the negative.

House Bill 1341 (Topper) – Increases the allowable weight limit for municipal-owned, three-axle vehicles from 58,400 pounds to 66,000 pounds or the gross vehicle weight rating for the vehicle, whichever is less.

    • A05501 (Langerholc) – Aligns exceptions with federal standards.
    • Amendment A05501 was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0).
  • House Bill 1341 was reported from Committee by a vote of 13-1, with Senator Scavello voting in the negative.

House Bill 1958 (Hennessey) – Requires the implementation of a driver improvement school by PennDOT. An individual that accumulates six points on a driving record for the first time must complete a driver improvement school or special examination, with subsequent accruals of six points or convictions of excessive speeding requiring completion of a driver improvement school. Completion of these requirements will reduce accumulated points on an individual’s driving record to varying extents.

    • A05559 (Langerholc) – Clarifies applicability and rules regarding third-parties that participate in the program.
    • Amendment A05559 was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0).
  • House Bill 1958, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (14-0).

House Bill 2372 (Schmitt) – Establishes process for wholesale vehicle auctions to declare a vehicle on their property “abandoned” if left on their property for at least three business days without the auction’s consent, with additional provisions allowing for the removal, sale, or transfer of legal ownership of the abandoned vehicle.

  • House Bill 2372 was reported from Committee by a vote of 10-4, with Senators Brewster, Kane, Kearney, and L. Williams voting in the negative.

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Thursday, June 30, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

Senate Bill 965 (Langerholc) – Provides for the operation of highly automated vehicles that meet a specific, global standard for autonomous capabilities as well as introduces standards relating to equipment, safety, and liability required for testing and deployment of these vehicles.

  • A05257 (Langerholc) – Adds additional powers and duties for PennDOT, creates self-certification process for HAV entities, clarifies powers and duties of local authorities, further addresses insurance and liability, provides support for workforce development programs for dislocated workers, and additional technical changes.
    • Multiple Republican Senators expressed a desire to see the language further refined, but also expressed support for moving the process.
    • Senator L. Williams offered similar comments with respect to moving the process forward.
  • A05257 was adopted by a vote of 10-4 with Senators Brewster, Flynn, Kane and Kearney voting NO.
  • The bill was reported as amended by a vote of 11-3, with Senators Brewster, Kane and Kearney voting NO.

House Bill 140 (Maloney) – Allows for parking alongside bike lanes, by updating the vehicle code, allowing protected bike lanes with vehicles parked outside of buffer area and pedestrian plazas.

  • A05253 (Langerholc) – Directs PennDOT and political subdivisions to provide deference to businesses and EV charging stations when contemplating protected bike lanes, creates eligibility criteria for PennDOT to verify municipalities are enforcing all aspects of motor vehicle code prior to design and construction of protected bike lanes, and requires the Attorney General to appoint a special prosecutor to promote, enforce and report on safety on SEPTA.
    • Senator Flynn offered comments and questions regarding the implementation of “deference” outlined in the bill, as well as PennDOT’s administrative responsibility to verify a political subdivision’s compliance with all motor vehicle laws as part of the planning process.
    • Senator Flynn further commented on the addition of language requiring the appointment of a special prosecutor for SEPTA, calling this an overreach far beyond the scope of the underlying bill.
  • A05253 was adopted by a vote of 9-5 with all Democratic members voting NO.
  • The bill was reported as amended by a vote of 9-5, will all Democratic members voting NO.

House Bill 1312 (Topper) – Bridge naming bill for Corporal William Glen Imler Memorial Bridge in Bedford County.

  • A05234 (Langerholc) – Gut-and-replace amendment making three corrections to errors in three items in previously-passed omnibus naming bill.
  • A05234 was adopted unanimously (14-0).
  • The bill was reported as amended unanimously.

House Bill 2702 (Hennessey) – Capital highway itemization bill authorizing additional state highway projects for funding through existing Motor License Fund revenues or debt issuance.

  • The bill was reported as committed unanimously.

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

Senate Bill 167 (Bartolotta) – requires actual proof of impairment (similar to prescription drugs) for DUI charges to be brought against an individual operating a vehicle with a legal medical marijuana card

  • A05036 (Langerholc) – makes clarifying, technical changes in response to previous hearing to address CDL language and other concerns
  • Amendment A05036 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 167, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1123 (Mastriano) – allows tow truck drivers to install and operate rear-facing blue lights

Senate Bill 1123 was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1249 (Comitta) – Creates a new pollinator conservation specialty license plate, and also establishes the Pollinator Habitat Program Fund

  • A05118 (Langerholc) – makes technical change to reflect ability to renew registration annually or biennially
  • Amendment A05118 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1249, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1299 (Langerholc) – bridge namer

Senate Bill 1299 was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

House Bill 140 (Maloney) – allows for parking alongside bike lanes, by updating the vehicle code, allowing protected bike lanes with vehicles parked on outside of buffer area

House Bill 140 was OVER

House Bill 1486 (O’Neal) – introduces a Blue Star Family license plate to be available to interested parties providing proper documentation and $20 fee to PennDOT

  • A05153 (Langerholc) – makes technical change to reflect ability to renew registration annually or biennially
  • Amendment A05153 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0)

House Bill 1486, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

House Bill 2526 (Hennessey) – Capital project bill itemizing additional state and local bridge projects for funding

  • A05179 (Langerholc) – Removes overwhelming majority of bridge projects from bill, retaining on those scheduled to be started in calendar year 2022. The bill explicitly adds the Fern Hollow Bridge, and also adds all capital highway projects scheduled to be started in calendar year 2022.
  • Chairman Flynn detailed his concerns with and opposition to the amendment, including the fact that this is a governance bill to allow PennDOT to make appropriate, informed planning decisions. He further noted that these capital transportation bills previously were enacted during each Legislative Session, but we have not enacted a bridge or highway capital authorization bill since 2014.
  • Senator Williams expressed her concern with the notice and timing provided by the Majority for such an extensive amendment, and she expressed opposition to the amendment.
  • Amendment A05179 was adopted in Committee by a vote of 8-5 with all Democratic members voting NO

House Bill 2526, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 to consider the following nomination:

Sean Logan to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission

Appointment of Sean Logan was favorably reported out of the Committee by a unanimous vote (14-0)

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

Senate Bill 1049 (Stefano) – allows for alternative options for an individual to retain their driver’s license in circumstances that they are financially unable to pay fines and fees imposed for routine traffic violations – including community service – to be determined by a magisterial district judge

    • A04667 (Stefano) – amendment developed with PennDOT to provide for technical changes and clarifying language for implementation
    • Amendment A04667 was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0)
  • Senate Bill 1049, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (14-0)

House Bill 1571 (Farry) – creates a special Air Medal registration plate to be issued by PennDOT to applicants who have received the medal, with an additional $23 fee

  • House Bill 1571 was reported from Committee unanimously (14-0)

House Bill 2139 (Warner) – requires the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) to notify E-ZPass holders if their account has been charged a flat video toll (V-Toll), adds reporting requirements related to toll collections and third-party collection applications, and increases penalties and reduces thresholds for registration suspension due to unpaid invoices

    • A04527 (Langerholc) – technical change correcting one word
    • Amendment A04527 was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0)
  • Senator Williams discussed her concern that the lowered threshold for unpaid invoices (4 instances of unpaid invoices or $250 total unpaid invoices) would cause unnecessary registration suspensions by PennDOT
    • It’s important to note that these thresholds apply to unpaid invoices, not the immediate instances that the violations occurs. The invoices are mailed, and then have a timeframe provided  for return payment.
  • Senators Brewster, Flynn, and Langerholc spoke in support of various aspects of the bill
  • House Bill 2139, as amended, was reported from Committee by a vote of 12-2 with Senators L. Williams and Kearney voting in the negative

House Bill 2216 (Mizgorski) – consolidates statutes governing the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Bank and State Railroad Infrastructure Bank into Title 74

  • House Bill 2216 was reported from Committee unanimously (14-0)

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

Senate Bill 1093 (Gebhard) – allows for the installation of energy efficient lighting on signs used for outdoor advertising

  • A04223 (Langerholc) – clarifying language requested by PennDOT to ensure clear intent that lighting upgrades are not to include any structural modifications
    • Amendment A04223 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0)
  • Senate Bill 1093, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1171 (Hutchinson and Boscola) – removes restrictions on the number of axles mandated for trucks hauling pulpwood or wood chips with heavy hauling permits

  • Senator L. Williams noted some informal concerns expressed by local Teamsters and indicated she’d vote ‘No’ in Committee and reassess after following up with them
  • Senate Bill 1171 was reported from Committee by a vote of 12 to 1, with Senator L. Williams voting in the negative

Senate Bill 1183 (Browne) – prohibits the operation of dirt bikes in third class cities and boroughs, as well as requiring dirt bikes and ATVs operated in violation of the law be forfeited and destroyed

  • A04324 (Flynn) – removes language requiring that forfeited dirt bikes and ATVs be destroyed
    • The practical impact of this amendment will allow forfeited property to be disposed of, used, or sold as is commonly done under existing forfeiture provisions
    • Amendment A04324 was adopted in Committee unanimously (13-0)
  • Senator Gordner inquired about this mandate for third class cities – current law explicitly forbids ATVs and snowmobiles from public roads, so this would add dirt bikes
  • Senate Bill 1093, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

Senate Bill 1199 (Robinson) – makes changes to the size and composition of the Port of Pittsburgh Commission board

  • Senate Bill 1199 was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

House Bill 773 (Quinn) – also known as “Deana’s Law”, increases the grading for fourth and subsequent DUI offenses from a felony of the third degree to a felony of the second degree, and also requires that the sentence for a fourth or subsequent DUI offense be served consecutively

  • Senate Bill 1199 was reported from Committee unanimously (13-0)

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Monday, May 23, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

House Bill 1560 (Stephens) – designates a portion of State Route 2038 as the U.S. Air Force Major James Doherty Memorial Highway in Bucks County

  • A04209 (Langerholc) – omnibus amendment adding numerous additional designations for roadways and bridges across the Commonwealth (original bill analysis with complete list of designations in ‘Comment’ section attached to this email)
    • Amendment was adopted in Committee unanimously (14-0)
  • House Bill 1560, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (14-0)

 

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 to consider the following legislation:

Senate Bill 145 (Brooks) – exempts municipal trucks from state bonding requirements in cases where these vehicles are traveling short distances for road maintenance activities, as well as additional provisions creating a permanent program for Letters of Local Determination (LoLD) to haul timber and modifications to requirements for hauling a dozer.

  • A03855 (Langerholc) – gut-and-replace amendment that narrows scope of bill to exempt municipal trucks from state bonding requirements – except for bridges – and further extends the sunset date to December 31st, 2028 for LoLD (attached to this email).
    • Amendment was adopted in Committee unanimously (12-0).
  • Senate Bill 145, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously (12-0).

Senate Bill 1094 (Gebhard) – updates language constituting the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC) based on feedback and suggestions received from the MCSAC – with changes including size and composition of membership, definition of “Motor carrier safety”, and changing powers and duties of MCSAC.

  • Senate Bill 1094, was reported from Committee unanimously (12-0).

 

Senate Bill 1186 (Gordner) – increases the fee for the sale of special United States Semiquincentennial registration plates from $50 to $52, and subsequently allocates a portion ($25) to the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial.

  • Senate Bill 1186, was reported from Committee unanimously (12-0).

The Senate Transportation Committee held a Public Hearing on Monday, April 4, 2022 to collect testimony on House Bill No. 140

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Monday, February 7, 2022 to consider the following bills:

Senate Bill 892 (Laughlin)  – Expands eligibility for an e-scooter pilot program adopted in the most recent Fiscal Code to include cities of the Third Class, boroughs and townships that pass an executive order.

  • A03663 (Flynn) – Limits the pilot program to include cities of the Second Class A and Third Class, along with technical changes.
    • Amendment was adopted in Committee unanimously.
  • Senate Bill 892, as amended, was reported from Committee by a vote of 12-2 with Senators Bartolotta and DiSanto voting in the negative.

Senate Bill 925 (Regan) – Updates language regarding violations for driving a vehicle at a safe speed with respect to traffic incidents

  • Senate Bill 925 OVER

Senate Bill 1031 (Phillips-Hill) – makes changes to DUI sentencing to clarify language regarding testing in suspected cases of DUI, specific terms in cases of conviction, provisions for installation of an interlock system, and eligibility for the Commonwealth’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program.

  • A03531 (Langerholc) – Removes changes under Section 3807 regarding Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD).
    • Amendment adopted in Committee unanimously.
  • Senate Bill 1031, as amended, was reported from Committee unanimously.

Senate Bill 1051 (Flynn) – Requires the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) to submit an annual report to the General Assembly with respect to uncollected tolls (i.e. “toll leakage”).

  • Several members discussed their general support for the legislation.
  • Senate Bill 1031 was reported from Committee unanimously.

Senate Bill 1053 (Flynn) – Authorizes the PTC to accept payments from third-party application providers (i.e. PayPal, Venmo, Zell, Cash App, etc.).

  • Senator Brewster noted opposition of the bill from the Teamsters, due to their position that cash collections from toll workers should be reinstated.
  • Senator Kearney noted that he was interested in the premise of the bill, especially as it could ultimately offset or eliminate the need for the current Toll By Plate system.
  • Senate Bill 1053 was reported from Committee by a vote of 11-3 with Senators Brewster, Kane (Proxy), and L. Williams voting in the negative.


The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 to consider the following bills:

Senate Bill 965 (Langerholc) – Allows for the operation of highly automated vehicles that meet a specific, global standard for autonomous capabilities as well as introduces standards relating to equipment, safety, and liability required for testing and deployment of these vehicles.

  • Senator Kane made a motion to TABLE the bill, which was defeated by a vote of 8-4 along party lines.
  • The bill was amended (A03565 – Langerholc) unanimously.
  • The bill was reported from Committee by a vote of 10-2, with Senators Kane and Williams (Lindsey) voting in the negative. 

Senate Bill 866 (Pittman) – An Act designating a bridge, identified as Bridge Key 19231, on that portion of State Route 1014 over the abandoned Conrail Railroad, Green Township, Indiana County, as the Carl E. Keith Memorial Bridge.

  • The bill was reported from Committee unanimously.               

Senate Bill 891 (Pittman) – An Act designating a bridge, identified as Bridge Key 41272, on that portion of Pennsylvania Route 286 over Crooked Creek, Rayne Township, Indiana County, as the Sergeant First Class Randy McCaulley Memorial Bridge.

  • The bill was reported from Committee unanimously.

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, January 19, 2022

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 to consider the following legislation:

S.B. 474 (Brooks): Authorizes legislative district offices to issue temporary disability parking placards directly to individuals.

  • The bill was reported out, as amended, by a vote of 9 Y : 5 N (Bartolotta, DiSanto, Gordner, Kane, Vogel)
    • Members in favor commended the sponsor for recognizing the benefit the service would provide constituents in need of a temp. dis. Parking placard. in an expedited fashion.
    • Members opposed questioned the ability of district staff to perform this service and the burden of storage and distribution.
  • A02747 (Langerholc): Changes the effective date from 60 to 90 days.
    • The amendment was approved by a vote of 13 Y : 1 N (DiSanto)

S.B. 504 (Stefano): Provides a fee reduction for veterans acquiring a license plate registration.

  • The bill was reported out as committed by a vote of 14 Y : 0 N
    • Chairman Sabatina shared concern with the current interpretation of the bill by PennDOT and the potential fiscal impact as the bill is currently written to apply to standard passenger, truck and commercial vehicle registrations. He urged the sponsor (Stefano) to consider amendment that would limit the fee exemption and subsequent processing fee of $10 for eligible veterans to merely standard passenger vehicles. Sen. Stefano indicated he would be accepting of such amendment.

The following bridge designation bills were considered as a package vote, agreed to by both Chairs:

  • S.B. 922 (Langerholc): Designates the Gerald “Jerry” Confer Memorial Bridge, a fallen PennDOT worker, in Clearfield County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • S.B. 470 (Dush): Designates the CPT Harry “Bud” Hetrick Memorial Bridge in Jefferson County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • S.B. 851 (Pittman): Designates the PVT William L. Hadden Memorial Bridge in Indiana County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 636 (Pisciottano): Designates the Scott F. Hirsh Memorial Interchange in Allegheny County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 1107 (Wheeland): Designates the Sgts. Thomas Woodruff, Sr., and Hamilton Woodruff Memorial Interchange in Lycoming County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 1120 (Topper): Designates the PFC James E. Williams Memorial Bridge in Bedford County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 1121 (Topper): Designates the Colonel Joseph M. Stine Memorial Bridge in Bedford County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 1304 (Metzgar): Designates the Private First Class Howard Hahn Memorial Bridge in Somerset County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.
  • H.B. 1312 (Topper): Designates the CPL William Glen Imler Memorial Bridge in Bedford County.
    • The bill was reported out as committed by a unanimous vote of 14 Y : 0 N.

The Senate Transportation Committee held a public hearing on Monday, September 27, 2021 on vehicle emissions and electrification:


The Senate Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 to consider the following bills:

Senate Resolution 172 (Langerholc/Yudichak) Calling on Congress to address the school bus driver shortage.

Moved by Gordner, 2nd by Sabatina, the bill was reported out unanimously

Senate Bill 859 (Langerholc/Sabatina) Changes to Act 159 of 2018 – School Bus Camera operations

Moved by Brewster, 2nd by Vogel, the bill was reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 474 (Brooks) Providing Handicap Placards in Legislative Offices.

This bill went OVER for the day.

Senate Bill 667 (Yaw) Protecting children from second-hand smoking in vehicles.

Moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Vogel, this bill passed by a vote of 11-3 (Sens. Kearney, Kane and DiSanto opposed).

Senate Bill 827 (J. Ward) An Act to establish an Electronic Weigh Station Bypass.

Moved by Stefano, 2nd by Kearney, this bill was reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 396 (Bartolotta) designating a bridge Washington County as the Mrs. Madeline Finney Memorial Bridge.

Senate Bill 847 (Mensch) designating the portion of State Route 2004 Montgomery County, as the Dr. Frank Erdman Boston Memorial Highway.

Senate Bill 865 (Langerholc) designating a bridge, Westmoreland County, as the Sergeant Richard Ivory Cullen Memorial Bridge.

Senate Bill 867 (Baker) designating the portion of Pennsylvania Route Wyoming County, to the intersection with State Route 1026 in Dallas Township, Luzerne County, as the Kunkle Firefighter Edward L. Nulton, Sr., Memorial Highway.

Senate Bill 780 (Pittman) designating a bridge Indiana County, as the Sergeant Charles R. Learn Memorial Bridge.

These five bills were all considered as a group.  The bills were moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Scavello.  They all passed unanimously.

Senate Bill 880 (Scavello) designating a portion of State Route 2014/Washington Street in East Stroudsburg Borough, Monroe County, as the Samuel Newman Way.

This bill was amended (A0235) to make this effective immediately.  This was a repeal from last session to create a similar designation with the correct coordinates.

This bill was passed unanimously as amended.

The Senate Transportation Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 accountability for the loss of $104 million in tolls:


The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 and reported out the following bills this morning:

Senate Bill 153 (Langerholc) – Authorizes the weight of electric powered trucks to operate at 82,000 pounds.

Moved by Vogel, 2nd by Scavello – the bill was reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 777 (Langerholc) – Exempts the five newest model year vehicles from the emissions test. (similar to SB 742 from last session).

Moved by Gordner, 2nd by Scavello, this bill was reported out 8-6.  Sabatina, Flynn, Brewster, Kane, Kearney and Tomlinson opposed.

Senate Bill 783 (Langerholc and Costa) – Creates a two-year e-scooter pilot program in the City of Pittsburgh.

Amendment A01943 – definition changes & provides an insurance provision

Moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Stefano – the bill was reported out unanimously as amended

Senate Bill 759 (Pittman) – Designates the Specialist Five Timothy Rice Memorial Bridge in Indiana County.

Moved by Scavello, 2nd by Vogel – the bill was reported out unanimously as amended

House Bill 925 (Borowicz) – Designates Bridge Key 12275, Clinton County, as the Petty Officer Stephen “Turbo” Toboz, Jr., Bridge.

Moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Kane – the bill was reported out unanimously

House Bill 1390  (Saylor) – Designates Bridge Key 37590, carrying Pennsylvania Route 425 over Fishing Creek, York County, as the PFC James Joseph Criswell Memorial Bridge.

Moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Kane, the bill was reported out unanimously.

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, June 8, 2021 and reported out the following bills this morning

Senate Bill 736 (Langerholc):  Amends Title 75 (registration plates) to allow for Home Delivery of agricultural products.

This bill is reported out unanimously 13-0

Senate Bill 737 (Langerholc):  Allows for a repeal in the PA Municipalities Planning Code to exempt the PA Turnpike Commission from certain environmental regulations.

This bill was reported out 11-2, Senator Kane and Kearney opposed.

Senate Bill 242 (Pittman):  Reduces the PA State Police’s annual payments under the Motor License Fund.

This bill is reported out unanimously 13-0

Senate Bill 725 (Bartolotta):  Creates an exemption under Title 75 to allow farmers to operate equipment with a general Class C driver’s license.

This bill is reported out unanimously 13-0

House Bill 765 (B. Miller): An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

This bill is reported out unanimously 13-0


The Senate Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, May 25, 2021  and considered the following bills:

Senate Bill 419 (Scavello) – Radar for Local Law Enforcement (this was Senate Bill 607 last session)

The bill was reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 615 (Hutchinson)  – Municipal Relief from Duplicative Special Event Requirements

This bill was reported out unanimously as amended (Amendment A0 1006 )

Senate Bill 532 (Stefano) – U.S. Route 219 over State Route 601 in Conemaugh Township, Somerset County, as the Corporal Anthony G. Orlandi Memorial Bridge.

This bill was reported out unanimously.

House Bill 125 (Mizgorski) – State Route 4017 on Wetzel Road, Shaler Township, Allegheny County, as the Commander William J. Schofield, III, Memorial Bridgehe

This bill was reported out unanimously.

The Senate Transportation Committee met on Monday, May 24, 2021 and reported out the following bills:

House Bill  832 (Boback) – An Act designating a bridge, identified as Bridge Key 37135, located on Pennsylvania Route 92 over the Susquehanna River, Falls Township, Wyoming County, as the Falls Veterans Memorial Bridge. 

House Bill 1101 (Warner) – An Act designating a portion of Pennsylvania Route 981 from the intersection with Pennsylvania Route 819 to the intersection with State Route 2021 in Mount Pleasant Township, Westmoreland County, as the Honorable Mike Reese Memorial Highway.

Both bills were reported out unanimously. 

The Transportation Committee met on Tuesday, April 20, 2021 and reported out the following bills :

The Senate Transportation Committee reported out the following bills today:

Senate Bill 283 (Hutchinson):  Amends the State Highway Law to require PennDOT to maintain all surface and subsurface drainage facilities connected with the State highways within boroughs and incorporated towns with populations equal to or less than 2,500 people. This was Senate Bill 101 last session.

The bill was reported out 11-2, Senators Brewster and Sabatina opposed

Senate Bill 445 (Mensch):  Provides individuals with an option to donate to the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition while renewing their vehicle registration or driver’s license on PennDOT’s website.

  • Amendment No. 692 (Langerholc):  Provides technical changes and extends the effective date to 120 days.

The bill was reported out unanimously as amended.

Senate Resolution 53 (Baker):  Directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct and issue a report on the effectiveness of PennDOT’s highway maintenance statutory formula.

  • Amendment A0750 was adopted, making a technical change.  The Resolution was reported out unanimously as adopted.  

House Bill 26 (Borowicz): Designates a bridge on State Route 1010 in Pine Creek Township, Clinton County, as the Tech. Corporate Lee R. Philips Memorial bridge.

The Bill was reported out unanimously. 

House Bill 56 (Struzzi): Designates a bridge on State Route 271 in Northern Cambria Borough, Cambria County, as the Sergeant William Stock Memorial Bridge.

The Bill was reported out unanimously. 

House Bill 124 (Rigby): Designates a bridge on State Route 3055 in the City of Johnstown, Cambria County, as the City of Johnstown Firefighters Memorial Bridge.

  • Amendment A0711 (Langerholc):  Includes any subsequent fallen firefighter from the City of Johnstown’s Fire Department.

The bill was reported out unanimously as amended. 

The Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 to consider the following bills:

Senate Bill 89 (Pittman):  Repeals the Balanced Multimodal Transportation Policy Commission.

Bartolotta moved, Scavello 2nds, the bill is reported unanimously.

Senate Bill 114 (Boscola):  Increases a driver’s responsibility to remove snow and ice from a vehicle. (Was SB 114 last session)

Scavello moved, Vogel 2nds, the bill is reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 282 (Langerholc):  Designates the Sgt. Harry Lewis Amigh Memorial Bridge carrying State Route 3039 in Jackson Township, Cambria County.

Scavello moved, Bartolotta 2nds, the bill is reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 382 (Langerholc):  Reforms the Public-Private Transportation Partnership (P3) statute.

Bartolotta moved, Gordner 2nds, the bill is reported out by a 9-4 vote.  Senators Sabatina, Brewster, Kane and Kearney opposed.

Senate Bill 410 – Bill Information Details (pasenate.com) (K. Ward): An Act amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in registration of vehicles, further providing for display of registration plate. (Was SB 954 last session)

Scavello moved, Vogel 2nd.  The bill is reported out 11-2.  Senators Kane and Kearney opposed.

House Bill 186 (Causer):  Exempts milk haulers from travel restrictions on highways during the Governor’s declaration of disaster emergency  (Was HB 915 last session)

Scavello moved, Vogel 2nd.  The bill is reported out by a 9-4 vote.  Senators Sabatina, Brewster, Kane and Kearney opposed.

The Transportation Committee met on Monday, February 22, 2021 to considered the following bills:

Senate Bill 120 (Tomlinson):  Provides an alternative to haul a dozer, with or without an attached blade.   

Moved by DiSanto, 2nd by Scavello. The bill is reported out unanimously.

Senate Bill 70 (Langerholc):  Designates a bridge carrying State Route 1008 in East Carroll Township, Cambria County, as the Kenneth John Ivory Memorial Bridge. 

Amendment No. 263 (Langerholc):  Adds the bridge key, as requested by PennDOT.

Moved by Sabatina, 2nd by Scavello, the bill is reported unanimously as amended

House Bill 11 (Kaufer):  Designates a portion of Pennsylvania Route 92 in Exeter Township, Luzerne County, as the Robert F. Kile, Sr., Memorial bridge.

Moved by Kearney, 2nd by Sabatina, the bill is reported out unanimously.

House Bill 12 (Kaufer) Designates State Route 1021 over the Susquehanna River in Wyoming Borough, Luzerne County, as the George J. Dennis, Jr., Memorial Bridge.

Moved by Kearney, 2nd by Sabatina, the bill is reported out unanimously.

House Bill 16 (Dowling):  Designates a bridge on U.S. 219 in Summit Township, Somerset County, as the SP4 Michael William Twigg Memorial bridge.

Moved by Kearney, 2nd by Sabatina, the bill is reported out unanimously.

The Transportation Committee met on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 to considered the following bills:

Senate Bill 49 (Langerholc) − An Act designating the bridge, identified as Bridge Key 8659, City of Johnstown, Cambria County, as the Reverend Andrew William Tilly, Jr., Bridge.

Bill moved by Chairman Sabatina, 2nd by Sen. Scavello.  The bill passed unanimously.

Senate Bill 55 (Langerholc) − An Act designating the bridge, identified as Bridge Key 8365 in Croyle Township, Cambria County, as the Private Fredrick Kinley Memorial Bridge.

Bill moved by Sen. Scavello, 2nd by Chairman Sabatina.  The bill passed unanimously.

Senate Bill 120 was on the agenda but went over for the day.


The Senate Transportation Committee on Monday, January 25, 2021: