In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation that will prevent PennDOT from denying a permit for a parade if the sponsor of the event does not indemnify elected officials.

As elected officials, it is our duty to be involved within our communities and to be a resource for our constituents when they require our assistance. Many of our communities often hold processions, special activities, and assemblages on state-owned roads, which allows elected officials the opportunity to engage with our constituents. The sponsors that hold these events within our communities are required to indemnify for harm and loss to the Commonwealth.

Unfortunately, there have been instances where the sponsor of a procession, special activity, or assemblage has decided to not indemnify elected officials that participate in the event. In not indemnifying elected officials and causing liability concern, PennDOT can deny the permit for a procession, special activity, or assemblage altogether. This causes communities to be unable to do the events and activities that they would like to, all because of a lack of indemnification of elected officials by the sponsor.

To that end, my legislation simply states that PennDOT may not deny a permit for a procession, special activity, or assemblage if the sponsor does not indemnify elected officials participating in the events and activities. My legislation does not require the indemnification of elected officials; it simply states that PennDOT cannot deny the permit for the procession if elected officials participate and they are not indemnified by the sponsor.

I hope you will consider co-sponsoring this important legislation to allow elected officials to participate in events and activities in our communities without the worry of causing a permit denial.