Be Part of Change with the DMVA Office of Policy, Planning, and Legislative Affairs!
The DMVA is inviting you to contribute to the policy-making process! Our Policy, Planning, and Legislative Affairs (PPL) Office serves as a vital link between the DMVA, the U.S. Congress, the Pennsylvania General Assembly, and other state agencies. We are actively seeking innovative policy and legislative proposals for the upcoming session, and we want to hear from you!
Do you see a problem or have an idea that could enhance services for our military personnel and veterans? Now is the time to share your insights. Your proposal should include:
1. Topic/Issue Identification: Clearly outline the problem your proposal addresses. Whether it’s increasing access to veteran services or improving support for the Pennsylvania National Guard, let us know what you see as a priority.
2. Current Law/References: Help us understand the landscape by identifying the existing laws, regulations, or policies related to your issue. This foundation will make it easier to advocate for your proposal.
3. Recommendations: What changes do you suggest? Be specific, and if you know of any anticipated costs, include them.
4. Stakeholders: Who benefits from this proposal? Identifying the key stakeholders—those who would support, oppose, or remain neutral—will strengthen your case.
5. Message: Clearly articulate why this initiative is needed. Your message should explain its importance and the impact it will have on our military members, veterans and their families.
We provide a proposal worksheet and an action plan template to help organize your ideas. Make an impact? Submit your proposal to the PPL Office at ra-mvdmvalegislative@pa.gov or call (717) 861-8719.
Join us in shaping policies that support our military members, veterans, and their families. Your voice can drive meaningful change!
Key 2023-2024 Legislative Wins for Pennsylvania
To date, the 2023-2024 legislative cycle has been a major success for the DMVA Policy, Legislative, and Planning Office. As of September 2024, we've passed 16 bills and five resolutions, with 13 additional bills under consideration. Our legislative focus has been on supporting military families, veterans, and key communities, while addressing broader public needs across Pennsylvania.
A key achievement, House Bill 804, sponsored by Rep. Frank Burns, became Act 14 of 2024. This bill grants limited residency status to military personnel, their dependents, and civilian personnel assigned to Pennsylvania, simplifying access to in-state tuition for military families.
Senate Bill 141, sponsored by Sen. Doug Mastriano, was enacted as Act 16 of 2024, expanding authorized military awards to recognize foreign military personnel, reinforcing Pennsylvania's military-friendly reputation.
Senate Bill 843, now Act 35 of 2024, introduced by Sen. David Argall, enacts the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact. This law supports military spouses in the teaching profession by facilitating the transfer of teaching credentials between states, creating career stability, and addressing teacher shortages.
Additionally, Senate Bill 447, sponsored by Senator Mastriano, established the PA VETConnect Program as Act 12 of 2024. This program enhances resources and support networks for veterans by improving coordination between state agencies, service providers, and veteran organizations.
As we close out 2024, with 13 bills still pending, the DMVA remains committed to advancing policies that benefit veterans, military families, and all Pennsylvanians.