The Senate Transportation Committee unanimously approved on April 21 bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Camera Bartolotta, including Senate Bill 1273, as well as a package of bills aimed at strengthening commercial driver’s license (CDL) safety standards. The committee’s actions focus on improving the state’s response to Amber Alerts and enhancing oversight of CDL training and testing.
The measures are intended to help law enforcement respond more quickly in emergencies involving missing children or vulnerable adults. Senate Bill 1273 clarifies that the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission can share time-sensitive information from its automated tolling system with law enforcement during incidents such as Amber Alerts or Missing Endangered Person Advisory System alerts.
“Every second matters when a child is abducted, or a vulnerable person goes missing,” Bartolotta said. “This legislation ensures law enforcement has access to the tools they need to act quickly and effectively. By removing any ambiguity in the law, we can better support efforts to bring loved ones home safely.”
The committee also advanced three bills introduced by Senator Judy Ward focused on enforcing English proficiency requirements for CDL holders and improving oversight of CDL training and testing processes. Bartolotta voiced her support for these changes, referencing her participation in a public hearing last year where she raised concerns about accountability within the CDL system. “These bills take meaningful steps toward closing gaps in the system and ensuring safer roadways for all Pennsylvanians,” Bartolotta added.
Bartolotta serves as an elected official representing Pennsylvania’s 46th Senatorial District, which includes parts of Beaver County along with all of Greene and Washington counties, according to the official website. She engages in legislative work supporting constituents through offices located in Harrisburg, Washington, Waynesburg, and Mon Valley according to her official website.
During her tenure in the state senate, Bartolotta has authored or supported laws related to workers’ compensation for first responders with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), increased penalties for reckless drivers, and protection of water resources according to her official website. She has also served as Majority Caucus Secretary among Senate Republican leadership according to her official website.
The legislative package now moves forward for consideration by the full Senate.
