In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation to strengthen privacy protections for motorists by limiting the use of text communications for toll related notifications.

Under current law, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission may use electronic toll collection systems to assess and collect tolls from vehicle owners. However, concerns have risen regarding the use of text messages to notify drivers about unpaid tolls, fees, and potential enforcement actions. Many motorists have expressed confusion, frustration, or suspicion when receiving unexpected text messages requesting payment. This raises issues of consumer protection, privacy, and the growing problem of toll related scam attempts.

As you may know, there has recently been an increase of text scams sent to constituents throughout the Commonwealth regarding unpaid tolls, fines, and fees threatening potential enforcement action. PennDOT, the Turnpike, and the Governor have issued many statements that the government will never text constituents regarding unpaid tolls, fees, and potential enforcement actions. However, the Turnpike has recently stated that they will be starting a pilot program to send text messages to notify drivers about unpaid tolls, fees , and enforcement actions. While this is only a pilot program, I believe that the Turnpike’s initiative will only cause more confusion, frustration, and suspicion and ultimately do more harm than good.

To that end, my legislation adds a new provision that prohibits the Commission, its authorized agents, contracted third parties, or employees from sending text messages to an owner’s mobile phone regarding unpaid toll charges or fees, links to websites for electronic payment, notices of potential or actual collection actions, and enforcement measures.

My legislation ensures motorists are protected from unsolicited or confusing text notifications while still allowing appropriate communication channels to be used effectively.

I hope you will consider co‑sponsoring this important legislation to protect our motorists from text communications for toll related notifications.