Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB229

Introduced

1/22/25

Refer

1/22/25

Caption

Establishing the Keystone Solvency Operating Study Commission; and providing for its powers and duties and for a report.

Impact

The bill seeks to mitigate financial risks associated with unfunded pension liabilities by promoting a clearer understanding of financial claims prioritization as outlined in the Pennsylvania Constitution. This clarity is intended to bolster efforts in addressing financial shortfalls and enhancing planning strategies during economic downturns. Additionally, the commission will analyze the financial solvencies under federal laws like PROMESA, providing vital insights that could be applicable to Pennsylvania’s approach towards potential bankruptcy situations.

Summary

House Bill 229, titled the Keystone Solvency Operating Study Commission Act, proposes the establishment of a legislative commission aimed at analyzing the fiscal health of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The primary focus of the commission will be on unfunded obligations, particularly concerning pensions, other postemployment benefits, and the financial stability of municipalities and school districts. The commission will serve as a tool to forecast and assess the potential risks associated with the Commonwealth's financial commitments and its capacity to meet current and future obligations.

Sentiment

The introductory discussions surrounding HB 229 have sparked a generally positive sentiment among fiscal conservatives who view the act as a proactive step towards improving the state's financial governance. Supporters believe that a thorough examination of financial vulnerabilities will lead to smarter policy decisions and potentially avert fiscal crises. However, there may also be skepticism among some stakeholders regarding the capacity and independence of the commission in effectively carrying out its mandate.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the commission's findings and recommendations — especially as they pertain to public pensions and educational funding. These financial areas often provoke significant debate among legislators, public sector unions, and educational advocates. The commission's assessments could lead to proposals that challenge the status quo, potentially calling into question existing fiscal strategies and funding allocations, which may become contentious in the political landscape.

Latest PA HB229 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB229

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB204

Establishing the Keystone Solvency Operating Study Commission and providing for its powers and duties and for a report.

PA HB577

Establishing the Keystone Saves Program, the Keystone Saves Program Fund, the Keystone Saves Administrative Fund and the Keystone Saves Program Advisory Board; and providing for powers and duties of the Treasury Department, for investment and fiduciary responsibilities and for program implementation.

PA SB1056

In Treasury Department, further providing for investment of moneys; establishing the Keystone Saves Program, the Keystone Saves Program Fund, the Keystone Saves Administrative Fund and the Keystone Saves Program Advisory Board; providing for powers and duties of the Treasury Department, for investment and fiduciary responsibilities and for program implementation; and providing for the electric vehicle road user charge effective date.

PA SB728

Establishing the Keystone Saves Program, the Keystone Saves Program Fund, the Keystone Saves Program Administrative Fund and the Keystone Saves Program Advisory Board; and providing for powers and duties of the Treasury Department and the Department of Labor and Industry, for investment and fiduciary responsibilities and for program implementation.

PA HB1020

In departmental powers and duties as to supervision, providing for Keystone STARS Program; and, in departmental powers and duties as to licensing, further providing for fees, providing for Keystone STARS Program and further providing for definition.

PA HB2420

Establishing the Keystone Fresh Program; providing for the Fresh Schools Grant Program, for the Keystone Producer Grant Program, for the Keystone Assistance Grant Program and for the administration of the Keystone Fresh Program by the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture; and establishing the Keystone Fresh Fund.

PA SB338

Establishing the Office of New Americans and providing for its powers and duties; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Americans and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA SB437

Providing for the study of intergenerational poverty; establishing the Intergenerational Poverty Tracking System, the Interagency Workgroup on Poverty and Economic Insecurity and the Pennsylvania Commission on Poverty Elimination and Economic Security; providing for a strategic plan and for reports; and imposing duties on the Department of Human Services and the Secretary of the Budget.

PA HB767

Establishing the Pennsylvania Socially Diverse Farmers Commission and providing for its powers and duties.

PA SB1307

In economic development financing, providing for Keystone National Finance Authority.