Posted: | December 14, 2022 05:00 PM |
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From: | Senator Christine M. Tartaglione |
To: | All Senate members |
Subject: | Salvation Army Emergency Vehicles |
In the near future, I intend to reintroduce legislation, formerly SB 206 of 2021-2022, that would further define an emergency vehicle under Title 75 (Vehicles) to include emergency service vehicles operated by the Salvation Army. In addition to providing critical services during emergency disasters, the Salvation Army plays a pivotal role in offering emergency response services to residents across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As a first responder to the scene of emergencies each day, the Salvation Army is tasked with providing life-preserving services and relief to individuals in need, especially through its rehabilitation capabilities, which include hydrating, cooling and warming provisions. For purposes of carrying out these responsibilities, the Salvation Army’s workers must be able to arrive quickly at emergency sites, so that they may offer their support to individuals until medical technicians become available. Unfortunately, under current law, the Salvation Army’s emergency vehicles are unable to become registered as emergency response vehicles in Pennsylvania. As a result, workers driving these emergency vehicles are not permitted to use the lights and sirens for emergency response purposes. This restricts the Salvation Army’s ability to respond to requests by local law enforcement agencies and emergency service providers. Please join me in co-sponsoring this imperative piece of legislation that will allow this organization to perform its intended duties—saving lives and restoring hope. |
Introduced as SB166