Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR29

Introduced
1/28/25  

Caption

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the development and implementation of a campaign contribution reporting system that requires contributions to be reported within 24 hours of receipt, establish an advisory committee to assist with the study and issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives.

Impact

If implemented, HR29 would create significant changes in the state's campaign finance landscape. Currently, the process for disclosing campaign contributions has noticeable delays, which can hamper voter awareness and engagement. Requiring near real-time reporting would not only streamline the flow of information but also increase accountability among candidates and their donors, as constituents will be able to see who is funding their campaigns almost immediately. Such transparency is likely to have implications for voter trust in candidates and the political process as a whole.

Summary

House Resolution 29 (HR29) aims to enhance transparency in campaign financing by directing the Joint State Government Commission to study the development and implementation of a reporting system that requires campaign contributions to be reported within 24 hours of receipt. This initiative seeks to provide voters with timely information on financial backing for political candidates, thereby fostering a more informed electorate. By establishing an advisory committee to assist in this study, HR29 proposes a structured approach to improving campaign finance reporting in Pennsylvania.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HR29 appears to be supportive among those advocating for increased transparency in government and campaign finance. Proponents believe that timely reporting will empower voters and discourage potentially unethical campaign financing practices. However, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility and privacy implications of rapid disclosure, which could be raised by some stakeholders who fear that such measures might deter donations or impose undue burdens on campaign operations.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HR29 could center around the logistics and technological requirements necessary for implementing a 24-hour reporting system. Questions may arise about the resources needed to establish such a system and how to ensure compliance among campaign entities. Furthermore, the establishment of penalties for late reporting might lead to debates over the appropriate levels of enforcement and accountability. As the advisory committee works to define best practices, there may be differing opinions about the balance between transparency and the operational burdens placed on candidates and their campaigns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HR182

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the development and implementation of a campaign contribution reporting system that requires contributions to be reported within 24 hours of receipt, establish an advisory committee to assist with the study and issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives.

PA HR315

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on public transportation services for individuals with disabilities, establish a legislative task force and advisory committee and issue a report of findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives.

PA HR38

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on public transportation services for individuals with disabilities, establish a legislative task force and advisory committee and issue a report of findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives.

PA HR80

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and issue a report on the best practices and recommendations for the operation of juvenile detention centers within this Commonwealth.

PA HR252

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish the 911/988 Technical Advisory Board and conduct a study and issue recommendations on interoperability between and across 911 and 988.

PA HR224

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and establish an advisory committee to review and analyze the opportunities for and benefits of agrivoltaic farming systems in this Commonwealth.

PA HR170

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish an advisory committee to conduct a study on the field of artificial intelligence and its impact and potential future impact in Pennsylvania.

PA SR143

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish an advisory committee to conduct a study on the field of artificial intelligence and its impact and potential future impact in Pennsylvania.

PA HR185

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of using geothermal energy technologies that utilize abandoned mining locations and operations in this Commonwealth and issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives.

PA HR45

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a low-emission and zero-emission vehicle program in this Commonwealth and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly.

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