Pennsylvania House Bill HB1369

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/12/23
• Refer: 6/12/23

Caption

Providing for guidelines and procedures governing certain investigations and interrogations of correctional and forensic employees; authorizing certain civil suits by correctional officers; and providing for impact of collective bargaining agreements and for summary suspensions.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state laws related to employee rights and workplace investigations in correctional settings. By clearly defining the procedures for investigations and interrogations, the bill intends to protect the rights of correctional employees while allowing for necessary oversight. Additionally, the authorization of civil suits underscores the accountability of the correctional system to its employees and may lead to more empowered correctional officers in asserting their rights.

Summary

House Bill 1369 aims to establish guidelines and procedures governing investigations and interrogations specifically related to correctional and forensic employees. The bill includes provisions that authorize certain civil suits by correctional officers and addresses the implications of collective bargaining agreements on these matters. By setting clear procedures, the bill seeks to enhance transparency and accountability within correctional facilities, ensuring that investigations are conducted fairly and in accordance with established protocols.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around HB 1369 seems to be cautiously positive among supporters who believe that the bill addresses critical gaps in the current laws governing correctional employee investigations. However, there are concerns regarding the practical implementation of these new guidelines and whether they adequately protect the rights of both correctional officers and those being investigated. The response from various stakeholders suggests a recognition of the importance of reform in this area, albeit with reservations about ensuring a balanced approach.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential implications for collective bargaining agreements as outlined in the bill. There are concerns from various advocacy groups that the bill may inadvertently limit the rights and protections currently afforded to correctional employees under existing labor agreements. Additionally, the question of how these new guidelines will align with existing laws and the potential administrative burden on correctional facilities to comply with the new procedures has emerged as a focal point in discussions surrounding the bill.