The state Senate recently passed legislation assisting farmers with their home delivery of agricultural products.
Senate Bill 736 amends Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to permit farmers to transport agricultural products for home delivery without an additional commercial registration.
Currently, farmers need both a farm registered vehicle and a commercial registration.
“This legislation will help farmers deliver their produce to the home consumer with a farm vehicle registration plate,” state Sen. Wayne Langerholc Jr. (R-Bedford/Cambria), Senate Transportation Committee chairman, said. “Home delivery has exploded, especially in light of the pandemic – this bill will ensure both farmers and consumers win.”
The bill defines a farm vehicle as a passenger car, truck, or truck tractor determined by the department of transportation to be used exclusively for agricultural purposes. The vehicle must have farm vehicle registration plates and must be used exclusively on a farm or on highways for the purpose of buying or selling agricultural commodities or supplies.
Senate Bill 736 also consolidates the Combustible and Flammable Liquids Act to further provide regulations and emergency controls.
The bill moves to Gov. Tom Wolf for his signature. If the bill becomes law, it will take effect in 60 days.
The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau supports the legislation.