The Senate has passed the Denise Williams Act, sponsored by Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35), to create a grant program for establishing Safe Exchange Zones across Pennsylvania.
Senate Bill 173 is named in memory of Denise Williams, a Cambria County resident who was murdered during an exchange arranged through Facebook Marketplace.
The legislation aims to establish safe areas under public surveillance and near law enforcement offices for individuals conducting online marketplace transactions, child custody exchanges, and similar activities.
“Safe Exchange Zones have been created in Johnstown and other areas to ensure the safety of individuals during transactions and exchanges, protecting them from potential threats or assaults,” Langerholc said. “This legislation codifies the work of District Attorney Greg Neugebauer and various law enforcement agencies in Cambria County. It will strengthen the safety of communities across the commonwealth by providing the necessary assistance to establish more of these zones.”
The establishment of Safe Exchange Zones will be voluntary and contingent upon approval from participating law enforcement agencies. These zones will feature video surveillance and be located within 100 feet of a law enforcement office or in a public area with active public presence.
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Gwenn Dando
