In the near future, I plan to re-introduce Senate Bill 173 that will establish a Safe Exchange Zone Program.

Following a tragic death in Cambria County, the Johnstown Police Department created a Safe Exchange Zone. The intent of the zone is to provide a safe place in public view and close proximity of law enforcement to effectuate either exchanges of goods purchased on FB Marketplace or other online entities. Also, this area can be used to transfer custody of children by parents involved with custody agreements.

This is not the first of its kind in the Commonwealth as other areas have been afforded with very positive reviews.

My legislation would create a grant program for municipalities and counties to establish more Safe Exchange Zones, similar to the one in Johnstown, across the Commonwealth. These locations will continue to make our communities safer and prevent future tragedy.

Previous co-sponsors to this legislation were: Phillips-Hill, Mastriano, Vogel, Tartaglione, Costa, and Cappelletti. Senate Bill 173 passed the Senate on September 17, 2024 with strong bi-partisan support.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.