Altoona Times

Senator Judy Ward, chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, announced the committee's approval of two significant legislative measures aimed at reforming Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program. The legislation seeks to update outdated requirements in line with current vehicle technology and air quality standards.

“These bills reflect a commitment to the consumer and reducing burdens on Pennsylvania drivers while maintaining compliance with federal air quality standards,” Ward stated. She emphasized that as more fuel-efficient vehicles become prevalent, emissions testing for these vehicles is increasingly unnecessary. The modernization efforts aim to reduce costs and save time for drivers without harming environmental standards.

Senate Bill 35, introduced by Senator Langerholc, proposes removing seven counties from the I/M program based on independent studies suggesting minimal impact on federal air quality compliance. Currently, annual emissions tests are mandatory in 25 counties at an approximate cost of $40 per test. An amendment by Senator Vogel allows any county meeting specific criteria to opt out of the I/M program.

“I thank Chair Ward for running my bills to eliminate the outdated and unnecessary emissions requirement," said Langerholc. He has consistently advocated for this change since his election, citing it as indicative of governmental inefficiency.

Senate Bill 149, also sponsored by Langerholc, would exempt vehicles from the last five model years from emissions testing requirements. This aligns Pennsylvania with other states in the Northeast Ozone Transport Region that have similar exemptions approved by the EPA.

These reforms aim to align Pennsylvania’s emissions testing policies with technological advancements and evolving environmental needs. Four counties within Ward’s district—Juniata, Mifflin, Huntingdon, and Fulton—are already exempt from these requirements.

Additionally, Senate Bill 78 was passed by the committee. Sponsored by Senator Pittman, this bill would designate a bridge in Indiana County as the PFC John Tabacsko Memorial Bridge.

The proposed legislation will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration before potentially advancing to the House and Governor Shapiro for final approval.

Residents can follow Senator Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard or X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for updates on legislative matters and district news. More information is available on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com.