PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB125

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB125

Introduced
3/7/23  

Caption

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for proposal of amendments by the General Assembly and their adoption.

Impact

Should HB125 be enacted, it would bring significant changes to the legislative processes relating to constitutional amendments in Pennsylvania. The resolution seeks to refine existing procedures, potentially lowering the barriers for proposing amendments and enhancing legislative engagement on crucial issues. This could lead to a more proactive approach by the General Assembly in addressing necessary changes to the Constitution, allowing for a faster response to the public's changing demands, although the specifics of how these procedures might be altered remain to be detailed in the discussions surrounding the bill.

Summary

House Bill 125 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The primary focus of the bill is to clarify and improve the procedures through which amendments to the state's Constitution can be proposed by the General Assembly and subsequently adopted. This bill aims to create a more streamlined and efficient process for enacting constitutional changes, which is considered essential for keeping the state's governing document relevant and effective amidst evolving societal needs and legal landscapes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB125 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Lawmakers and proponents of the bill emphasize the need for a functional and adaptable Constitution that can respond effectively to the challenges of modern governance. However, some skepticism exists regarding the potential consequences of altering the amendment procedures, including fears about hasty changes or insufficient public input during the legislative process. Overall, there is a recognition of the importance of balancing efficiency with democratic oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB125 involve concerns over the potential for increased legislative power at the expense of public involvement in amending constitutional provisions. Critics may argue that streamlining the amendment process could lead to decisions that bypass comprehensive public discourse, possibly allowing for rapid changes that do not fully reflect the electorate's sentiments. The discussions will likely center around ensuring that any changes enhance democratic engagement rather than diminish it.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB481

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for proposal of amendments by the General Assembly and their adoption.

PA SB1

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

PA HB430

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for sessions of the General Assembly.

PA HB125

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for sessions of the General Assembly.

PA HB1

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

PA HB1

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

PA HB437

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB891

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB554

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

PA HB1193

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for qualifications of electors.

Similar Bills

PA HB547

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB703

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA HB1207

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA HB1339

In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and for explanation of ballot question and providing for wording of ballot question; in dates of elections and primaries and special elections, further providing for elections on proposed constitutional amendments; in ballots, further providing for form of official election ballot; in voting machines, further providing for form of ballot labels on voting machines; and, in preparation for and conduct of primaries and elections, further providing for publishing constitutional amendments.

PA SB1

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

PA HB458

Providing for a Constitutional Convention with limited powers, for a referendum on the question and for the selection, nomination and election of delegates; defining the powers, duties and operation of the Constitutional Convention; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth, officers of the General Assembly and county boards of elections; providing for a referendum on the Constitutional Convention's report; imposing a penalty; and making an appropriation.

PA SB551

Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.

PA SB242

Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.