Senate Republicans Spearheading PA Permitting Reforms

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(HARRISBURG) – Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41) today highlighted the important permitting reform work championed by Senate Republicans:

“Our Senate Republican Caucus has long recognized the need to implement meaningful permitting reforms in order to expand job opportunities and grow our economy. Executive Orders come and go, which is why we insisted our permitting reform efforts be enshrined in law, as happened back in July.

“Pennsylvanians sent a clear message on November 5, that improving the state of our economy must be of critical focus. We know that creating a robust economy is key to combatting inflation and helping to increase access to family sustaining jobs. 

“While it is unclear how Governor Shapiro’s most recent Executive Order is different from previous legislation spearheaded by Senate Republicans, we welcome the governor and his Democratic colleagues to the table to work together on further initiatives.”

Media Contact: Kate Flessner kflessner@pasen.gov

Brooks Bill to Extend Lemon Law Protections for Motorcycles Awaits Governor’s Signature

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HARRISBURG – The state Senate has approved legislation introduced by Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) that would extend Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law protections to include motorcycles, sending the bill to the governor’s desk for his signature.

Currently, the state Lemon Law only applies to cars. Brooks introduced Senate Bill 155 to extend the consumer protections to Pennsylvanians who purchase motorcycles.

“Many people save for years to purchase their motorcycle and they deserve the same consumer protections as other motorists,” said Brooks. “Extending Lemon Law protections to motorcycles is a matter of fairness and ensuring that all motorists are safeguarded in their investments.”

Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law provides protections for customers who purchase or lease a car that is registered in the commonwealth. The law protects customers who experience defects with their car during the first year or 12,000 miles of leasing or ownership. Manufacturers are given three opportunities within a year to repair the defect. If the problem still cannot be corrected, the customer is eligible for a replacement or refund.

The bill now awaits the governor’s approval to become law.

 

CONTACT:
Adam Gingrich, 717-787-1322

Bill Allowing Year-round Motorcycle Inspections Poised for Enactment, Bartolotta Says

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HARRISBURG – Legislation to allow year-round motorcycle safety inspections in Pennsylvania, championed by Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46) and Rep. Kyle Mullins (D-112), is set to become law after receiving unanimous Senate and House support.

Even though motorcycles can be purchased and driven on Pennsylvania roadways throughout the year, the state Vehicle Code currently only allows safety inspections to be performed from March to October.

“Government shouldn’t stand in the way of people who are trying to preserve their own safety and that of others on our roads. Allowing motorcycle inspections year-round will make it more convenient for people to ensure they are current on inspections – a no-brainer,” Bartolotta said.

The legislation would eliminate the current restriction to give motorcycle operators more opportunities to complete required inspections. Motorcycle registration with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation would continue to be tied to the month the vehicle is to be inspected.

“On behalf of the many motorcyclists, dealerships, and service stations I am fortunate to represent, I was proud to help pass this commonsense change in law,” said Mullins. “Considering the use and sale of motorcycles is permitted year-round, it is important that we allow motorcycle safety inspections year-round as well.”

Both House Bill 2177 and Senate Bill 1147 passed the Senate. House Bill 2177 ultimately advanced to the governor for enactment. If signed into law, it would be effective in 60 days.

 

CONTACT: Katrina Hanna, 717-787-1463

Langerholc Bill Creating Rape Kit Tracking System Signed into Law

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HARRISBURG – A bill sponsored by Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) to establish a statewide rape kit evidence tracking system was signed into law as Act 122 of 2024.

Act 122 of 2024 allows survivors to track the status of their rape kits throughout the testing process, from collection to destruction. With this legislation, Pennsylvania will join 35 states and the District of Columbia that have already implemented rape kit tracking systems.

“Act 122 strengthens our commitment to empowering survivors and holding offenders accountable,” Langerholc said. “Establishing a rape kit tracking system in Pennsylvania will enable sexual assault survivors to monitor the status of their kits during an investigation, bringing transparency and accountability to the process.”

In addition to creating a rape kit tracking system, Act 122 brings Pennsylvania into compliance with the Fairness for Rape Kit Backlog Survivors provision of the recent Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization.

To comply with VAWA, the bill provides a waiver for survivors who file untimely claims for compensation due to delays in rape kit testing. Survivors will not need to undergo an appeal process for consideration of this waiver.

Act 122 also empowers survivors by clarifying existing rights and enshrining new statutory rights for survivors of sexual assault.

Langerholc joined Gov. Josh Shapiro and Erika Brosig, Chief Operating Officer from Victim Services Inc. for a ceremonial bill signing in the Governor’s Reception Room.

“The very nature of sexual assault is that it takes away power from the survivor.  Having this tracking system will give survivors some of their power back and facilitate healing right from the start. We are so grateful for Senator Langerholc’s unwavering support for sexual assault survivors in the commonwealth.  He has truly been a champion for the movement,” said Erika Brosig.

Act 122 builds on Langerholc’s leadership in supporting survivors of sexual assault. In 2018, he sponsored Act 164 to streamline the process of collecting sexual assault evidence and require regular reporting on related data. In 2019, he sponsored Act 29, which enacted a comprehensive bill of rights for survivors in Pennsylvania.

CONTACT: Gwenn Dando

Senate Republicans Re-Elect Leadership Team for 2025-26 Legislative Session

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HARRISBURG – Senate Republicans re-elected their entire leadership team today to continue serving in the 2025-26 legislative session.

Sen. Kim Ward (R-39) has been re-elected to serve as interim Senate President Pro Tempore from Dec. 1 until Jan. 6. On Tuesday, Jan. 7, the Senate will vote for a President Pro Tempore to serve for the new two-year legislative session.

The President Pro Tempore is responsible for appointing the chairpersons and members of the 22 standing committees of the Senate and serves as an ex-officio member of all committees. She presides over the Senate floor when the Lieutenant Governor is unavailable and fills the position of Lieutenant Governor if the office becomes vacant. The office also refers bills and resolutions to the appropriate Senate committees for consideration.

“First and foremost, I wish to express appreciation to my Senate colleagues for re-electing me as interim President Pro Tempore. But more importantly, together, we need to hit the ground running to tackle the real challenges facing Pennsylvania. Pennsylvanians don’t want disruption or divided government fueled by partisanship; they want a balanced government – that prioritizes economic growth and job creation, safeguards their constitutional rights, and addresses the rising costs of essentials like food and utilities. Each of us was elected by constituents who want us to work together to achieve these goals, and it’s our duty to do just that. I look forward to charting a path with my republican and democrat colleagues to pass meaningful legislation that advances our Commonwealth and helps the people we represent.”

Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41) was re-elected Senate Majority Leader. His duties include overseeing the legislative agenda, developing policies and strategies for the Senate Republican caucus and playing a key role in floor debates. He also has a major role in negotiating issues with the administration and House of Representatives and coordinating action on the Senate floor.

“I am honored to have been re-elected by my colleagues to continue to serve as Senate Majority Leader for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session. Throughout the last two years, our Senate Republican majority has worked to empower Pennsylvanians and place our Commonwealth on a strong financial path. We stood together to stop massive spending increases proposed by Democrats and to uphold our Constitution. As we look to the new session, our efforts as a 28-member majority will continue to focus on advancing a pro-growth, pro-law enforcement agenda, and to grow our economy and population in a smart and sustainable way for the future.”

Sen. Ryan Aument (R-36) was re-elected Majority Whip. The duties include acting as assistant floor leader, working to gain support for legislation and ensuring that Republican policies and strategies are maintained through the cooperative efforts of the majority caucus.

“Pennsylvanians sent a strong message from the ballot box on Nov. 5 by voting to maintain the Republican majority in the Pennsylvania Senate, and we are honored to represent them and eager to advocate on their behalf for this next term. Our leadership team has heard their message loud and clear and is prepared to work hard advancing a solid conservative agenda for the people of Pennsylvania while also acting as a power check on House Democrats and Gov. Shapiro.”

Sen. Scott Martin (R-13) was re-elected to serve as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The committee reviews all legislation for its fiscal impact and plays a crucial role in negotiating and developing the state budget. Each year, the panel holds a series of public hearings with leaders of state departments and agencies to study the governor’s budget proposal and ensure taxpayer dollars are being utilized properly.

“For years, Senate Republicans have fought to protect taxpayers by passing fiscally responsible budgets and rejecting irresponsible increases in spending. As we face significant economic and demographic challenges in the years ahead, we must continue to fight to support working families and make Pennsylvania a better place to live, work and raise a family. I am grateful that my colleagues have placed their trust in me to continue to play a leading role in that process.”

Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28) was re-elected as Majority Caucus Chair. The chair presides over Republican caucus meetings to discuss bills and amendments and to develop caucus strategy.

“I am honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me to continue serving in this role. By prioritizing transparency, accountability and effective solutions, I look forward to working together to strengthen our communities, support Pennsylvania’s families and build a brighter future for our Commonwealth.”

Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46) was re-elected Senate Majority Caucus Secretary to oversee all executive nominations submitted to the Senate for confirmation. She will coordinate the review of the background and experience of nominees and ensure that proper documentation is submitted.

“It has been my honor to have been selected by my colleagues as a member of the Senate Majority Caucus Leadership team for the past four years. During that time, we remained unified and vigilant in advancing our collective goals, caucus policy and legislative priorities. I am grateful to, once again, be chosen as part of this team for the upcoming 2025-26 legislative session and I look forward to continuing those efforts and to hold the Shapiro Administration accountable on behalf of all Pennsylvanians.”

 

CONTACTS:

Erica Clayton Wright (Sen. Ward)
Kate Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
Stephanie Applegate (Sen. Aument)
Jason Thompson (Sen. Martin)
Jon Hopcraft (Sen. Phillips-Hill)
Katrina Hanna (Sen Bartolotta)

Brown’s Legislation to Bolster EMS and Fire Funding Flexibility Becomes Law

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HARRISBURG – Sen. Rosemary Brown (R-40) announced that her legislative package to strengthen funding flexibility for emergency medical services (EMS) and fire companies has been signed into law. The new laws amend Pennsylvania’s municipal codes to support EMS and fire funding, addressing longstanding financial challenges in staffing and operations.

“These laws give local governments the flexibility they need to ensure EMS and fire services can meet growing demands,” Brown said. “Lifting outdated restrictions allows municipalities to allocate funds more effectively, particularly for staffing – enabling us to better support the essential personnel who protect our communities.”

The legislative package – consisting of Senate bills 1132, 1133 and 1134 – enables municipalities to use a greater portion of existing local EMS and fire taxes for personnel costs without raising taxes. Previously, only half of EMS tax revenue could be allocated to personnel, limiting municipalities’ ability to address the staffing shortages facing both EMS providers and fire companies.

Brown credited Debbie Kulick of Bushkill Emergency Service for her input on the legislation, highlighting the vital role of community feedback in shaping effective legislation. “This is exactly how government should work: people voice their concerns, and we make the necessary adjustments. The best laws come directly from the people,” Brown said.

These new laws empower local governments to prioritize and maintain critical emergency services, enhancing both the speed and reliability of responses without placing additional financial burdens on residents.

For a full list of Brown’s enacted laws, visit her website.

CONTACT:
Mackenzie Mueller

Pennsylvania Voters Return Republican Majority to State Senate

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HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania voters returned a Republican majority to the state Senate in the recent General Election, re-electing all Republican incumbents and sending new Republican senators to Harrisburg.

“Pennsylvanians were energized and sent a clear message that they are done with far-left policies that step on their constitutional rights and make it hard for them to keep up with the high cost of food and utilities,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-39). “Pennsylvanians can count on us to focus on helping our families by growing the economy and jobs.”

“This is an historic and exciting time for Pennsylvania and our entire nation,” Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R-41) said. “Voters have spoken loudly and clearly to send a strong team of Republicans to the state Senate. Across the Commonwealth we are witnessing a renewed embrace of policies and principles to strengthen families and forge a promising and prosperous future. For the first time in over two decades, we will welcome a new senator to our Caucus from Philadelphia, which serves as a significant means to further close the rural, urban, and suburban divide. Our Senate Republican Caucus will continue to be steadfast in our work to empower Pennsylvanians by standing against executive and judicial overreach, rejecting Democrats’ massive tax increases, and ensuring the fundamental rights of our Commonwealth’s citizens remain safely guarded.”

 Senate Republicans will hold a 28-22 majority in the 2025-26 legislative session.

Voters elected two new Republican senators. Sen.-elect Dawn Keefer was elected in the 31st Senate District covering parts of Cumberland and York counties. She currently represents the 92nd Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Sen.-elect Joe Picozzi was elected in the 5th Senate District representing a part of Philadelphia. He previously worked for the U.S. House of Representatives and in public policy, where he focused on policies to revitalize cities.

The following Republican senators were re-elected: 

  • Dave Argall (R-29), representing Carbon and Schuylkill counties and part of Luzerne County.
  • Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27), representing Columbia, Montour, Northumberland and Snyder counties and part of Luzerne County.
  • Cris Dush (R-25), representing Cameron, Clinton, Elk, McKean and Potter counties and parts of Jefferson and Centre counties.
  • Scott Hutchinson (R-21), representing Clarion, Forest, Venango and Warren counties and parts of Butler and Erie counties.
  • Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35), representing Cambria and Clearfield counties and part of Centre County.
  • Dan Laughlin (R-49), representing parts of Erie County.
  • Scott Martin (R-13), representing parts of Berks and Lancaster counties.
  • Doug Mastriano (R-33), representing Adams and Franklin counties.
  • Joe Pittman (R-41), representing Armstrong and Indiana counties and parts of Jefferson and Westmoreland counties.
  • Devlin Robinson (R-37), representing parts of Allegheny County.
  • Elder Vogel (R-47), representing parts of Beaver, Butler and Lawrence counties.
  • Kim Ward (R-39), representing parts of Westmoreland County.
  • Gene Yaw (R-23), representing Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga and Union counties.

Newly and re-elected senators will be sworn into office to begin their four-year terms on Jan. 7, 2025.

 

CONTACT
Erica Clayton Wright (Senator Ward)
Kate Eckhart Flessner (Senator Pittman)

Steps We’ve Taken to Support Pennsylvania Veterans

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Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24)

Veterans Day is an opportunity for us to acknowledge the debt of gratitude owed to the men and women of Pennsylvania who have answered the call to serve our nation in uniform for decades.

During the 2023-24 legislative session, my Senate Republican colleagues and I have worked to support members of the military and the more than 700,000 veterans who call our commonwealth home.

As a U.S. Army combat veteran, I’m especially proud of two measures I sponsored that will make a real difference for military families and veterans.

One provides educational support for children of National Guard and Reserves members. Military families face frequent reassignments, posing educational challenges for children transitioning between schools in different states. Act 82 of 2024 will give children of National Guard and Reserve members the same help provided to those of active-duty military families through the Military Interstate Children’s Compact. The compact makes getting started in a new school, joining extracurricular activities, facilitating enrollment and meeting graduation requirements as easy as possible for military children.

Another measure I sponsored established the Task Force on Women Veterans’ Health Care. There are more than 63,000 women veterans in Pennsylvania. By 2045, women will make up an estimated 18% of our nation’s veterans. This new task force will study the unique health care and access issues facing women veterans and make recommendations ensuring they have access to health care designed for them.

One of the biggest challenges is making veterans aware of the wide array of assistance they earned. We passed legislation to use the PA VETConnect Program to help ensure all veterans know about available resources and how to access them.

So many of the stories associated with veterans are told through their military service records. These records have a vast amount of personal information on them, such as birthdates and Social Security numbers. We passed a law that increases protections of these documents to prevent fraud and theft.

Disabled veterans paid a severe price for their service. We enacted a law that exempts 100% of disabled veterans’ benefit payments from income calculations for any commonwealth programs or benefits.

Many veterans suffering from service-related, trauma-based conditions end up on the wrong side of the law. So we enacted a measure that directs the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to study whether incarcerated veterans suffering from these conditions are receiving adequate treatment. 

Other new laws allow veterans and others to fish for free in therapeutic recreation events and programs, permit recipients of the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal to apply for a specialty license plate, and establish March 29 of each year as Vietnam War Veterans Day in Pennsylvania.

Senate Republicans made supporting veterans a topic priority in the 2023-24 legislative year and remain committed to serving their needs as they so bravely served our nation.

Mastriano to Hold News Conference to Discuss New State Law Honoring Vietnam Veterans

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HARRISBURG – As our nation continues to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) will hold a news conference on Thursday, Nov. 7, to discuss a new state law making March 29 of every year Vietnam War Veterans Day in Pennsylvania, as well as other accomplishments during the General Assembly’s 2023-23 legislative session benefitting Pennsylvania veterans. The event will begin at noon at the state headquarters of The American Legion, Department of Pennsylvania, 800 N. Front Street, Wormleysburg, PA.

“Our Vietnam War veterans served our nation with courage, honor and dignity, but they did not receive the welcome home enjoyed by other generations of veterans,” said Mastriano. “My father served during the Vietnam War, and I saw how he and his brothers in arms were treated, so this is personal to me.”

Mastriano’s Senate Bill 1160, creating the day, was recently signed into law as Act 124 of 2024.

“Although nothing can undo their unjust treatment, this law honors their service and the sacrifices they made for our freedoms during that dark time in America,” Mastriano said. “This offers our Vietnam-era veterans the thank you from their state they deserve.”

Representatives from various Pennsylvania veterans organizations, including Vietnam Veterans of America (PA State Council) 2nd Vice President Rich Hudzinski and American Legion Department Commander John Fritz, will be in attendance and participate in the event.

The event will also be livestreamed HERE.

Sen. Doug Mastriano represents the 33rd Senatorial District covering Adams and Franklin counties. He serves as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee. He is a combat veteran who served in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm and was deployed three times to Afghanistan. For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Mastriano’s website at www.senatormastriano.com or follow him on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenatorDougMastriano.

CONTACT: Nate Silcox ; 717-787-4651

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