HARRISBURG – Sen. Judy Ward (R-30), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, today announced the passage of two key pieces of legislation that will reform Pennsylvania’s outdated Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) program.
“These bills reflect a commitment to the consumer and reducing burdens on Pennsylvania drivers while maintaining compliance with federal air quality standards,” Ward said. “As newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles continue to dominate the market, emissions testing for these vehicles has become increasingly unnecessary. By modernizing our emissions testing program, we can make commonsense reforms that also save drivers time and money without compromising our environment.”
Senate Bill 35, sponsored by Senator Langerholc (R-35), will remove seven counties from the I/M program where independent studies show that such a change would have minimal impact on maintaining federal air quality standards. Currently, Pennsylvania requires annual emissions testing for motorists in 25 counties, costing drivers approximately $40 per test. An amendment was adopted, offered by Senator Vogel (R-47), that would remove any county from the I/M program as long as they meet certain standards without the presence of those test.
“I thank Chair Ward for running my bills to eliminate the outdated and unnecessary emissions requirement. Since I was first elected, I have introduced legislation every single legislative session. This requirement is an example of everything that is wrong with government,” said Langerholc.
Senate Bill 149, also sponsored by Senator Langerholc, exempts the five most recent model year vehicles from emissions testing requirements, aligning Pennsylvania with other states in the federally mandated Northeast Ozone Transport Region (OTR). States like Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Virginia have implemented similar exemptions with EPA approval.
Together, these reforms are a step forward in updating Pennsylvania’s emissions testing requirements to reflect advancements in vehicle technology and evolving air quality needs. The other four counties, Juniata, Mifflin, Huntingdon, and Fulton, in Senator Ward’s district are already exempt.
The committee also passed Senate Bill 78, sponsored by Senator Pittman (R-41), that would designate the PFC John Tabacsko Memorial Bridge in Indiana County.
The bills now head to the Senate where they can receive further consideration. Should the bills pass the Senate, they would need to be approved by the House before going to Governor Shapiro for his signature.
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
Ward contact: Nathan Akers
717-787-2421