Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB597

Introduced
5/12/25  

Caption

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase procedures and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

Impact

The implications of SB 597 are substantial as it seeks to improve public transportation systems by ensuring better coordination and funding distribution. It mandates that a specified percentage of federal funding under the Formula Grants for Rural Areas Program be allocated to eligible local transportation organizations. By clarifying funding procedures, the bill aims to support capital projects and improve service delivery, particularly in underserved rural areas. This legislative update is expected to enhance regional connectivity and promote the sustainability of transportation initiatives across Pennsylvania.

Summary

Senate Bill 597 focuses on enhancing sustainable mobility options by amending Title 74 (Transportation) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The bill aims to provide clearer definitions and strengthen the application and approval process for funding related to community and shared ride services. This legislation underscores the importance of optimizing public passenger transportation systems and outlines the mechanisms for funding allocation and management. The introduction of new classifications for transit entities is also a key feature, streamlining operations and ensuring that local transportation organizations can effectively manage federal funds.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 597 is generally positive among transportation advocates and local governments. Supporters argue that the bill will lead to significant improvements in community transportation services, making them more efficient and accessible to residents. However, there are concerns from some stakeholders regarding the bureaucracy involved in applying for and managing these funds, which could hinder the timely implementation of projects. Overall, the sentiment reflects a chance for better mobility solutions while recognizing the challenges that may arise from new regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the complexity of the funding allocation process and the potential administrative burden placed on local transportation organizations. Some critics argue that the bill may lead to excessive oversight and regulation, which could slow down the implementation of necessary transportation services. Additionally, there may be debates around the definitions and classifications introduced for transit entities, which could affect how funds are distributed and managed. Balancing the need for oversight with the need for nimble, responsive transportation solutions remains a critical point in discussions about this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1914

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase procedures and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

PA SB597

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase procedures and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

PA SB1334

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for fund and for operating program.

PA HB744

Further providing for definitions, for creation of program, for incubator grants, loans and loan guarantees and for responsibilities of local sponsors; repealing provisions relating to challenge grants for seed capital funds; further providing for general powers and duties of the board and for indicators of program impact; providing for funding sources; repealing provisions relating to time limit on approvals; and making a repeal.

PA HB2391

In sustainable mobility options, providing for State Safety Oversight Office.

PA SB1335

In public assistance, further providing for definitions, for administration of assistance programs and for regulations for protection of information; in the aged, further providing for Life Program; and making a repeal.

PA HB982

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in program, further providing for program established.

PA HB2407

In general provisions relating to emergency management services, further providing for definitions; in Commonwealth services, further providing for assistance to fire companies and EMS companies, for State Fire Commissioner and for curriculum, training and education certification management system; in grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for definitions, for publication and notice, for award of grants, for consolidation incentive, for establishment, for publication and notice and for award of grants, repealing provisions relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, further providing for allocation of appropriated funds, repealing provisions relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program, to expiration of authority relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to expiration of authority relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program and further providing for special provisions and for annual reports; and making transfers.

PA HB1555

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in pupils and attendance, providing for educational oversight for juveniles in facilities, further providing for possession of weapons prohibited and providing for placement of certain adjudicated students; in safe schools, further providing for definitions and for reporting and providing for School-Based Diversion Programs Fund; in school security, further providing for powers and duties and providing for limitations on proceedings and arrest; and, in school districts of the first class, repealing provisions relating to placement of certain adjudicated students.

PA SB1099

In grants to fire companies and emergency medical services companies, further providing for definitions, for publication and notice, for award of grants, for consolidation incentive, for publication and notice and for award of grants, repealing provisions relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program, further providing for expiration of authority, repealing provisions relating to expiration of authority relating to COVID-19 Crisis Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program and to expiration of authority relating to Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program and further providing for annual reports.

Similar Bills

PA HB1510

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase threshold and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

PA HB1914

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase procedures and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

PA SB597

In sustainable mobility options, further providing for definitions, for fund, for application and approval process, for Federal funding, for coordination and consolidation, for operating program, for asset improvement program, for new initiatives program, for programs of Statewide significance and for program oversight and administration, providing for small purchase procedures and repealing provisions relating to evaluation of private investment opportunities.

PA HB1542

Establishing the Electric School Bus Grant Program and the Electric School Bus Grant Program Fund; providing for duties of the Department of Education; and making an appropriation.

PA HB2132

Establishing the Pennsylvania-Ireland Trade Commission and the Pennsylvania-Ireland Trade Commission Fund; imposing duties on the Department of Community and Economic Development; providing for the Entertainment Economic Enhancement Program;

PA HB2310

In emergency COVID-19 response, further

PA HB1284

In rules of the road in general, further providing for automated enforcement of failure to stop for school bus with flashing red lights, for automated speed enforcement systems in active work zones and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement system on designated highway and providing for automated speed enforcement study and for pilot program for automated speed enforcement systems in designated school zones; and imposing a penalty.

AZ HB2598

Transportation tax; election; Maricopa county.