PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1444

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1444

Introduced
6/20/23  

Caption

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, providing for exception to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

Impact

The implications of HB1444 are significant, as it alters existing mandates on wiretapping and surveillance practices in the state. By providing clear definitions and carving out exceptions, the bill facilitates a structured approach to the interception of communications. This may also impact privacy laws, as the bill potentially broadens the scope within which authorities can operate, raising concerns among civil liberty advocates about the safeguarding of individual rights against unwarranted surveillance.

Summary

House Bill 1444 seeks to update definitions and provisions concerning wiretapping and electronic surveillance within the state's legal framework. This bill introduces exceptions to the prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications, particularly involving the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole. The aim is to adapt to the evolving landscape of communication technologies and ensure that law enforcement and parole authorities can effectively monitor and manage individuals under their supervision, thereby enhancing public safety measures.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB1444 is mixed, as supporters view the bill as a necessary tool for law enforcement agencies to maintain security and oversight over probation and parole processes. Advocates argue that in an age of rapid technological advancement, such measures are essential for preventing crime and ensuring community safety. Conversely, some critics raise alarms about privacy infringements, suggesting that the bill could lead to abuses of power by law enforcement and a reduction in the privacy rights of residents.

Contention

Debates around HB1444 highlight a fundamental conflict between the need for effective law enforcement and the protection of individual privacy rights. Opponents of the bill contend that enhancing surveillance capabilities risks normalizing invasive practices that could infringe on civil liberties. They advocate for stricter regulations on wiretapping and electronic surveillance to prevent overreach. As the bill progresses, discussions are likely to continue regarding the need for oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure that any new provisions do not compromise the rights of citizens.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB260

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions.

PA HB1278

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications, providing for public access and for Department of Corrections retention policy and further providing for expiration of chapter.

PA SB639

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA HB1744

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA HB750

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications.

PA SB520

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and repealing provisions relating to public access; in enforcement relating to fish, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; in enforcement relating to game, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; in recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for definitions and for audio recording or video recording policies; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of Department of Corrections; and making transfers between the State Gaming Fund and certain restricted accounts.

PA HB2596

In Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for definitions and for parole power.

PA SB1194

In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; and, in enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers.

PA HB641

In sentencing, further providing for sentences for second and subsequent offenses; and, in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for parole power.

PA HB1674

In Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for parole power.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.