Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB376

Introduced
3/6/25  
Refer
3/6/25  
Refer
5/13/25  
Report Pass
6/2/25  
Engrossed
6/4/25  

Caption

Providing for the prohibition of unauthorized applications.

Impact

If enacted, SB376 would directly affect the policies regarding the use of technology within state government agencies. By restricting access to specified applications, the bill seeks to safeguard state networks from potential security threats. Law enforcement and security personnel are exempt from this prohibition when conducting activities that involve security interests or risk mitigation. This exemption illustrates the balance the bill attempts to strike between promoting security and allowing necessary operational flexibility within law enforcement.

Summary

Senate Bill 376 (SB376) aims to enhance cybersecurity by prohibiting the use of unauthorized applications, specifically targeting applications like TikTok, on state-owned electronic devices as well as state wireless networks. The legislation establishes clear definitions related to what constitutes 'unauthorized applications', while also categorizing state-owned devices for easier enforcement of the guidelines outlined in the bill. This initiative reflects a growing concern over data security and the potential risks associated with certain applications that may compromise sensitive state information.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment towards SB376 appears to lean towards approval among lawmakers focused on enhancing cybersecurity measures. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step in protecting state-held data from potential foreign manipulation and security breaches. However, the emphasis on certain applications, particularly TikTok, suggests a growing political climate where concerns about digital technology intersect with national security narratives. Critics may argue that such restrictions could limit the functionality of state-owned devices and could face scrutiny over First Amendment implications.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB376 include debates about the classification of applications as 'unauthorized' and the broader implications this may have on technology use within public administration. Legislators may also face discussions regarding the effectiveness of the bill in actually mitigating security risks and whether such restrictions are a necessary approach compared to holding accountable individuals who misuse state resources. The bill represents a proactive stance on cybersecurity, but it may also invite challenges regarding its implementation and enforcement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB379

Providing for protection of State-owned electronic devices and networks from applications controlled by foreign adversaries.

PA SB159

In assault, providing for the offense of unauthorized use of an electronic tracking device; and providing for penalties.

PA SB40

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for departmental responsibilities and for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration and for application with driver's license application, providing for Commonwealth agencies and other entities and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and for approval of registration applications; and providing for privacy and security standards for voter registration in this Commonwealth.

PA SB563

In computer offenses, providing for the offense of ransomware; and imposing duties on the Office of Administration.

PA SB565

In preliminary provisions, providing for student data privacy and protection; imposing duties on the Department of Education; and providing for penalties.

PA SB1333

Providing for unlawful possession and sale or lease of property and for unauthorized occupancy of dwellings.

PA SB37

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2042

In revenues, providing for audits of Pennsylvania Race Horse Development Trust Fund; in administration and enforcement, further providing for investigations and enforcement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in administration, further providing for records and confidentiality of information; in application and licensure, further providing for establishment licenses, for license or permit prohibition, for issuance and renewal and for conditional licenses; in operation, further providing for testing and certification of terminals and for video gaming limitations, providing for hours of operation and further providing for terminal placement agreements and for compulsive and problem gambling; in enforcement, further providing for investigations and enforcement; in revenues, further providing for distribution of local share, for regulatory assessments and for transfers from Video Gaming Fund; in ethics, further providing for political influence; in riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of gambling devices, gambling, etc.; providing for implementation; and making a repeal.

PA HB377

In general provisions relating to residential real property, further providing for definitions; and, in seller disclosures, further providing for application of chapter and providing for disclosure of construction defects.

PA HB970

In preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for standardized forms and for applications; and, in voter registration, further providing for preparation and distribution of applications and providing for government service facilitation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.