PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1303

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1303

Introduced
6/5/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Refer
6/14/23  

Caption

In mayor, further providing for execution of laws, powers of sheriff conferred and emergency powers.

Impact

The proposed amendment is expected to significantly affect how local governments manage emergency situations. By allowing for a longer initial duration of emergency proclamations, local authorities may find it easier to implement necessary measures without the immediate need for an extension, thereby potentially enhancing public safety and stabilizing communities during emergencies. Additionally, this bill highlights the balance of power between local and state governments regarding emergency responses.

Summary

House Bill 1303 aims to amend Title 11 (Cities) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning the execution of laws, powers of sheriffs, and emergency powers. A significant aspect of this bill is the alteration of the current limitations on the duration of emergency proclamations. Previously set at five days, the bill proposes to extend this period to seven days unless further extended by council action. This change seeks to provide local government officials with greater flexibility and authority during emergencies, ensuring a quicker response to crises affecting their jurisdictions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1303 appears to be supportive among the legislators who introduced the bill. They argue that it modernizes the existing statutory framework to reflect the complexities of contemporary emergencies. However, there may be discussions regarding accountability and the appropriate limits of executive power in emergencies, which could evoke mixed sentiments from various stakeholders concerned about local governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention could emerge around the implications of extending emergency powers. While proponents view the bill as necessary for effective governance during crises, critics may raise concerns about the potential for abuse of power or the circumvention of legislative oversight. Ensuring safeguards within the bill to prevent any misuse of extended emergency powers will likely be a focal point during discussions and debates as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB102

In size, weight and load, further providing for permit for movement during course of manufacture; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for power of Governor during emergency.

PA SB153

In size, weight and load, further providing for permit for movement during course of manufacture; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for power of Governor during emergency.

PA HB569

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for powers of council and providing for waiver.

PA SB765

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for surcharge by auditors; in powers, duties and rights of appointed officers and employees, further providing for borough manager created by ordinance and election, for powers and duties, for other offices not incompatible and for organization of commission; and, in taxation and finance, further providing for preparation of budget.

PA SB775

In general provisions, further providing for scope of subchapter, providing for definitions, further providing for establishment and designation, providing for emergency meetings by authorized telecommunications device, repealing provisions relating to exercise of powers and functions, further providing for declaration of policy and for definitions, repealing provisions relating to enabling authority for emergency interim successors for local offices, further providing for emergency interim successors for local officers and for succession period and repealing provisions relating to term and removal of designees.

PA HB1295

In powers and duties, further providing for hearing examiners.

PA HB1364

In powers and duties, further providing for civil penalties.

PA HB2265

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for organization of council, quorum, participation by telecommunication device, voting, compensation and eligibility; and, in mayor, further providing for salary of mayor.

PA HB1233

In general provisions, further providing for scope of subchapter, providing for definitions, further providing for establishment and designation, providing for emergency meetings by authorized telecommunications device, repealing provisions relating to exercise of powers and functions, further providing for declaration of policy and for definitions, repealing provisions relating to enabling authority for emergency interim successors for local offices, further providing for emergency interim successors for local officers and for succession period and repealing provisions relating to term and removal of designees.

PA SB404

In corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for additional powers of certain public utility corporations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.