The Pennsylvania Senate passed legislation this week that would prohibit future vehicle mandates in that state.
Sponsored by state Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-Washington), S.B. 990 would ensure Pennsylvania’s can choose their preferred vehicle by preserving future state mandates on specific vehicle purchases. The legislation, officials said, would protect consumer choice, while encouraging innovation and helping to prevent higher costs associated with uniform mandates. The bill supports a comprehensive approach to transportation that allows new advancements to develop and compete, Bartolotta’s office said.
“With the Senate’s approval of this bill, we are reaffirming that Pennsylvanians deserve more choices, not fewer,” Bartolotta said. “Government mandates too often pick winners and losers, drive up costs for families and stifle innovation. This legislation protects consumer freedom and ensures emerging technologies can compete and evolve on their own merits.”
According to the bill, it would “amend Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in powers of department and local authorities, providing for restrictions of motor vehicles based on power source prohibited.” That wording would prohibit the state from restricting the purchase of a vehicle based on its power source.
In a sponsorship memo, Bartolotta said, “Mandating the purchase of specific types of vehicles not only results in fewer choices and higher costs, but it also stifles ingenuity and the development of advanced fuel and emissions technologies. When it comes to energy and transportation, consumers should have MORE choices, not fewer. This includes gas- and diesel-powered vehicles, hybrids, EVs and any future technological advancement that comes our way.”
Additionally, she said 13 other states, including West Virginia, have signed similar bills into law, and five others are contemplating similar legislation.
The legislation will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.