Amending House Rule 14, further providing for members' and employees' expenses.
Impact
The proposed changes under HR47 may significantly impact how members of the House manage and report their expenses, enforcing stricter accountability. The new rules aim to minimize potential misuse of funds and ensure all expenditures are transparent and properly documented. By requiring more detailed reporting of expenses and maintaining public access to audit reports, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity of legislative financial practices in Pennsylvania.
Summary
House Bill 47 aims to amend House Rule 14, which regulates the reimbursement of expenses for members and employees of the House of Representatives. The bill specifies the guidelines for how and when members can claim reimbursements for various legislative activities, including travel, lodging, and other expenses incurred while conducting official duties. It establishes that members must submit vouchers or other required documentation for reimbursements within a specified time frame, promoting accountability and ensuring that public funds are spent appropriately.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding HR47 appears to lean towards a supportive view focused on improving transparency and accountability in legislative spending. Advocates for the bill argue that it strengthens oversight and responsible use of taxpayer funds. However, some members may view these restrictions as burdensome, potentially leading to debate about balancing accountability with the operational flexibility needed for efficient legislative functions.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between necessary oversight and operational efficiency for lawmakers. While proponents emphasize the importance of rigorous documentation to prevent misuse of public funds, opponents may argue that excessive regulations could hinder legislative productivity. Discussions around HR47 may also touch upon the implications for how members of the House conduct their business, particularly regarding travel and professional services, which could require adjustments to current practices.
Adopting permanent rules for the House of Representatives, further providing for questions of order, for supervision of Hall of the House and committee rooms, for members' and employees' expenses, for order of business, for general appropriation bill and non-preferred bills, for consideration of bills, for third consideration and final passage bills, for hospital and home appropriations or acquiring lands of the Commonwealth, for House and concurrent resolutions, for standing committees and subcommittees, for powers and duties of standing committees and subcommittees, for Committee on Rules, for discharge of committees, for lay on the table, for previous question, for members required to be present and vote and for financial interests in gaming entities, providing for vote by designation and further providing for Committee on Ethics.
Providing for the Operating Rules For The Special Session On Providing Justice To Otherwise Barred Victims Of Childhood Sexual Abuse (Special Session No. 1).
Amending the General Operating Rules of the House of Representatives and House Rule 18, further providing for definitions and for introduction and printing of bills.