This week, the Pennsylvania General Assembly officially began its 2025 legislative session, with newly elected and returning members taking their oaths of office. For the trucking industry, significant developments in leadership positions promise to keep transportation funding and priorities at the forefront of legislative discussions.

Senate 

Republican Senator Kim Ward of the 39^th district (Westmoreland Co.) was re-elected as President Pro Tempore of the Senate. In her remarks, she broadly outlined the Republican caucus’ agenda, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and economic growth—key issues for Pennsylvania’s trucking community. Speaking specifically on transportation, Senator Ward stated that “it’s important that we’re disciplined, to use our gas tax revenues as intended, and build a more innovative, modern and realistic network.” She advised her colleagues to "invest [transportation dollars] wisely and remain competitive."

A major development is the elevation of Senator Wayne Langerholc to a leadership role as part of the Senate Republican team as Majority Whip. Langerholc, the former Senate Transportation Committee Chairman, has a deep understanding of the issues affecting the trucking industry. His presence in leadership ensures that the industry’s perspectives will be part of broader legislative discussions, particularly those related to transportation funding and policy. Senator Langerholc noted, “this legislative session presents tremendous opportunity to grow our economy, become an energy leader and invest in our transportation system in a fiscally responsible manner.”

Senator Judy Ward of the 30^th District (Blair, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, and Mifflin Counties) was appointed the new Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. In appointing Senator Judy Ward, President Pro Tempore Kim Ward cited Ward’s experience and leadership as making her uniquely qualified for the position.

“I am honored to take on this important role,” Ward said. “Transportation infrastructure has an important history in my district and is the foundation of our communities and a driving force behind our economy. Whether it’s repairing aging roads and bridges, enhancing public transit systems or modernizing our railways and airports, I am eager to collaborate with my colleagues to tackle challenges and seize opportunities to build a stronger, more connected commonwealth.”

Senator Marty Flynn, who represents the 22^nd district (Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties), was reappointed Democratic Chairman of the Transportation Committee.

House

In the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Representative Ed Neilson of the 174^th district will again chair the House Transportation Committee. Neilson, who represents parts of Philadelphia, cited successes last session in bills passed to strengthen distracted driving laws and ensure that electric car owners are paying their fair share for roads. “While the House Transportation Committee faced challenges during the previous legislative session, I was happy to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and implement bipartisan solutions to those challenges," Neilson stated. “I want to build on the accomplishments of the 2023-24 legislative session and make Pennsylvania a leader in all aspects of the transportation sector."

Representative Kerry Benninghoff of the 171^st district (Centre and Mifflin Counties) will return as the Republican Chairman of the House Transportation Committee for the 2025-26 session. "I’m honored to be asked to again lead this committee, especially after the work we did during the 2023-24 session," Benninghoff said. "We moved 61 pieces of legislation, 17 of which became law, which is why I’m looking forward to again working with my fellow chairman, state Rep. Ed Neilson (D-Philadelphia)."

Benninghoff highlighted Pennsylvania’s unique transportation challenges, including its expansive highway network and aging bridge infrastructure, as well as the impact of changing work habits and electric vehicles on funding mechanisms. "Transportation is very much a changing industry. We as a General Assembly must work with the administration to meet those changes and recognize the transportation needs of every Pennsylvanian, both rural and urban, in a fair and equitable manner," he added.

Key Implications for Trucking

The trucking industry will closely watch transportation issues as the new General Assembly begins its work. Maintenance and improvement of Pennsylvania’s aging roads and bridges remain a priority. Expect robust discussions on long-term solutions for sustainable funding and initiatives to reduce congestion and improve safety on critical freight routes. PMTA’s transportation priorities also include ending the diversion of highway funds, increasing truck parking capacity, and reducing costs to make Pennsylvania more competitive for trucking companies.

PMTA congratulates all members of the General Assembly and looks forward to working closely with key leaders to advance policies that support the trucking industry. With strong representation and leadership, the 2025 session holds promise for meaningful progress on issues that are vital to Pennsylvania’s economy and the trucking community.

Stay tuned for updates and ways to connect with your lawmakers as PMTA continues to advocate for the priorities of our members.