Driving Change: How PTAP is Advocating Smarter Parking Policies in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, updating state laws that govern parking in cities of the 1st, 2nd, 2A, and 3rd classes has been a long-standing challenge. With 56 municipalities classified as cities, each with its own regulations, navigating legislative reform is no small feat. To streamline advocacy efforts, the Pennsylvania Parking Association (PTAP) is taking inspiration from the California Mobility & Parking Association (CMPA), which has spent over 25 years championing the parking industry.
With the help of a seasoned advocacy firm, PTAP members will receive timely legislative updates and have access to resources that amplify their voices in policy discussions. This coordinated effort ensures fair regulations, increased revenue opportunities, and improved city parking management.
Past Success and Future Goals
In 2017-2018, PTAP successfully advocated for legislation allowing Cities of the 3rd class to adjudicate parking tickets outside of District Justice courts. This change streamlined payment processing, improved offender experience, and alleviated court backlogs.
For 2025, PTAP’s Advocacy Committee has identified three key priorities:
Front-Facing License Plates – Pennsylvania is one of only 20 states that do not mandate front-facing plates. Implementing this requirement will enhance license plate recognition (LPR) technology for efficient enforcement.
Red Light & Speed Cameras Operated by Parking Authorities – Expanding automated enforcement, similar to successful programs in Philadelphia, can improve safety, reduce court congestion, and generate municipal revenue.
State-Backed Enforcement of Unpaid Fines – PTAP is advocating for policies that allow for registration holds and driver’s license censure for unpaid citations, ensuring accountability and compliance.
Recent Advocacy Efforts
PTAP leaders have actively participated in legislative discussions, meeting with policymakers to advocate for meaningful reform. On May 3, 2023, they engaged with the PA House and Senate Transportation Committees to discuss policy priorities. Nearly a year later, on May 1, 2024, PTAP representatives and industry experts provided testimony at the Senate Transportation Committee Hearing. Most recently, on June 11, 2024, they held a virtual meeting with PennDOT to explore enforcement mechanisms for unpaid fines.
Join the Movement
As cities and municipalities set their own agendas, having a dedicated advocacy firm ensures that parking and transportation priorities remain in focus. By uniting behind a common goal, PTAP members can drive legislative success, making parking more efficient and equitable across Pennsylvania. As the saying goes, when the tide rises, all boats rise—and with PTAP’s advocacy efforts, Pennsylvania’s parking future is looking brighter than ever.
Article by:
Mark A. Vergenes
MIRUS Consultants
Mark A. Vergenes is a consultant for Mirus Consultants. Mark can be reached at 717-332-4395 or mark@mirusconsultants.com.