Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2156

Introduced
3/25/24  

Caption

In particular rights and immunities, providing for civil immunity of parents or guardians.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2156 could have significant implications for state laws regarding parental rights and civil liability. It may limit the circumstances under which parents and guardians could be successfully sued for decisions pertaining to their minor children. This change could encourage more proactive decision-making by parents, knowing that they have legal protections in place. Additionally, it could lead to fewer legal challenges against parents regarding their responsibilities and actions related to their children's upbringing.

Summary

House Bill 2156 focuses on providing civil immunity for parents or guardians in specific circumstances. The bill is designed to shield parents and guardians from liability when making decisions for their children within the scope outlined by the legislation. Proponents argue that such protections are necessary to ensure that caregivers can make decisions without the fear of legal repercussions, thus supporting family autonomy and strength in caring for children. The bill is positioned as a measure that aligns with the parental rights movement, emphasizing the role of parents as the primary decision-makers in their children's lives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2156 appears to be largely supportive among its proponents, who view it as a necessary affirmation of parental rights. They believe it empowers parents and acknowledges their authority in making decisions about their children's welfare. Conversely, there may be opposing views highlighting concerns around potential misuse of the provisions, fearing that some parents may exploit these protections, which could hinder accountability in certain situations. The discussions indicate a significant split between those advocating for expanded parental rights and those cautioning against granting broad immunity.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns from advocacy groups and lawmakers who express the need for a balance between parental rights and the protection of children. Critics may argue that while the intention of the bill is to support parents, it could also inadvertently shield negligent behavior if not framed carefully. Thus, discussions reflect a broader debate on the extent of parental rights versus the responsibilities to ensure child welfare, emphasizing the need to create a legal framework that adequately protects both children's interests and parental authority.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2158

In particular rights and immunities, providing for civil immunity for failing to use preferred pronouns.

PA HB941

In particular rights and immunities, providing for parental firearm liability for minor's negligence or willful misconduct.

PA SB972

In particular rights and immunities, providing for immunity for protected public expression.

PA HB918

In particular rights and immunities, providing for action for nonconsensual misuse of condom.

PA HB1464

In particular rights and immunities, providing for immunity for constitutionally protected communications.

PA SB651

In assault, further providing for the offense of ethnic intimidation; and, in particular rights and immunities, further prohibiting civil rights violations.

PA HB1027

In assault, further providing for the offense of ethnic intimidation; and, in particular rights and immunities, further prohibiting civil rights violations.

PA HB713

In particular rights and immunities, further providing for declaration of policy, for definitions and for scope of subchapter.

PA HB2600

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in particular rights and immunities, further providing for death action.

PA HB1024

In assault, further providing for ethnic intimidation; in particular rights and immunities, further providing for civil rights violations; and, in employees, further providing for definitions and providing for annual officer training on hate-based intimidation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.