HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania motorcoach operators held 20 meetings with state lawmakers and legislative staff during the Pennsylvania Bus Association‘s second annual Lobby Day, advocating for policies related to workforce development, commercial vehicle safety and labor legislation.
Association leaders said the June 3 event at the Pennsylvania State Capitol allowed private bus companies to discuss industry challenges directly with policymakers and highlight the role motorcoach operators play in Pennsylvania’s economy.
“Our industry plays a vital role in Pennsylvania’s economy, connecting communities, supporting tourism, providing safe transportation, and creating jobs,” Pennsylvania Bus Association Chair Tammy Wolf-Baker said. “Lobby Day allows our members to share firsthand how public policy decisions impact their businesses, employees, and the passengers they serve every day.”
The event included a legislative breakfast attended by 30 state representatives and legislative staff members, followed by meetings between association members and lawmakers throughout the day.
Policy positions
Among the issues discussed was House Bill 200, which would establish a statewide family and medical leave program. Association leaders said they support efforts to assist employees during significant life events but encouraged lawmakers to consider employer-driven solutions and exemptions for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, consistent with federal Family and Medical Leave Act standards.
The association also discussed House Bill 2189, which proposes increasing Pennsylvania’s minimum wage. Industry representatives said higher wage requirements could contribute to wage compression, workforce retention challenges and increased operating costs for transportation providers already navigating labor shortages and rising expenses.
Commercial vehicle safety was another priority. The association voiced support for legislation to strengthen safety standards, including measures to target fraudulent commercial driver’s license training operations and to ensure English proficiency requirements for commercial vehicle operators.
Association leaders also urged continued investment in workforce development initiatives, including CDL training programs, career and technical education opportunities, grant funding for driver training, and efforts to streamline licensing and background-check processes.
“We are grateful to all of our members who participated in Lobby Day and to the legislators and staff who welcomed us and took time from their busy schedules to meet with us,” Wolf-Baker said. “These conversations are essential to ensuring lawmakers understand the importance of the private motorcoach industry and the communities we serve.”
Founded in 1923, the Pennsylvania Bus Association represents private motorcoach operators and travel industry suppliers throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states. The organization advocates for policies that support safe, reliable, and affordable transportation while promoting tourism, economic development, and workforce growth.
