The state Senate on Tuesday approved a package of bills introduced by Sen.

Bob Robbins, R-50th, that would bring municipal law provisions governing prehiring examinations of emergency responders in cities and towns into compliance with the federal Americans With Disabilities Act.The ADA prohibits requiring a medical examination of all applicants before an offer of employment. Robbins, however, said the ADA does allow medical examinations and inquiries with certain conditions."The truth is,"he said, "these bills are needed to protect local governments by ensuring that they can screen candidates for these essential public safety jobs in ways that are in compliance with federal and state anti-discrimination laws."The bills in the package, according to Robbins, would meet ADA requirements by:n Clearly delineate a difference between prohibited preoffer "medical examinations" and permissible job-related "physical and agility tests."n Clearly define "medical examinations" in accordance with federal law, include "psychological medical examinations," and specify that medical examinations may not occur until a conditional offer of employment has been made.n Remove the ability of a municipality to disqualify a candidate, at the preoffer stage, on the basis of a "disability," because of past or current addiction to alcohol, or past addiction to drugs.Current illegal use of narcotics is not a protected disability, thus a prospective employer may ask questions related to current use of illegal drugs.n Clearly specify where in the process "medical examinations" may occur in relation to the written examination, when veteran's preference points are to be awarded, and how long eligibility lists may be in effect.———State Sens.

Jane Orie, R-40th, and Vincent Fumo, D-Philadelphia, last week announced the introduction of legislation to expand the Code of Conduct contained in Act 44 of 2007.That act, passed last July to address the state's highway infrastructure and mass transit funding problems, significantly expanded the role of the Turnpike Commission. The act also has a code of conduct for the commission and its staff.As Act 44 moves toward full implementation, Orie and Fumo want to strengthen these ethics provisions.The senators said whether true or not, media reports have routinely criticized the Turnpike Commission for conflicts of interest in its hiring and employment practices."I believe that, as the new lead agency on many transportation issues, it is important that the Turnpike Commission vigilantly avoid even the appearance of impropriety in its conduct," Orie said."This legislation will give clearer ground rules as well as consequences for situations in which it could be questioned that the taxpayers or tollpayers are not getting the best deal for their money."Under the proposal, the new code of conduct applying to commissioners and executive level employees would prohibit them from holding or seeking party office.It would restrict business, employment and contractual activity, would prevent them from lobbying the Turnpike for one year after leaving the agency; would guard the release of confidential Turnpike information, and would ensure they file financial disclosure statements and undergo ethics training.———U.S. Rep.

Jason Altmire, D-4th, announced he revamped his congressional Web site to better meet constituents' needs.It is at www.altmire.house.gov.Constituents also can contact one of Altmire's district offices in Aliquippa, Beaver County, at 724-378-0928 or in Natrona Heights, Allegheny County, at 724-226-1304.His office in Washington, D.C., can be reached at 202-225-2565.