Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1461

Introduced

6/20/23

Refer

6/20/23

Refer

6/21/23

Report Pass

6/21/23

Refer

6/22/23

Report Pass

6/22/23

Engrossed

6/26/23

Refer

6/26/23

Refer

6/28/23

Report Pass

11/13/23

Refer

11/15/23

Report Pass

11/15/23

Enrolled

11/16/23

Chaptered

11/16/23

Passed

11/16/23

Caption

Providing for funding for State-related universities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, and ending June 30, 2024, for costs basis, for frequency of payments and for recordkeeping requirements; imposing a duty on the Auditor General; providing for financial statements, for the Agricultural College Land Scrip Fund and for restrictions; and making appropriations.

Impact

The impact of HB 1461 on state laws centers around increased financial oversight and accountability for state funding allocated to state-related universities. The bill imposes a requirement that Lincoln University files detailed expenditure reports, allowing the Auditor General to review and audit the appropriated funds. This heightened level of scrutiny is aimed at ensuring that the funds are used appropriately and in accordance with the specified purposes outlined in the bill. Such measures ostensibly aim to enhance fiscal responsibility and transparency in the use of state appropriations.

Summary

House Bill 1461, known as the State-Related University Nonpreferred Appropriation Act of 2023, focuses on providing financial appropriations for state-related universities, specifically Lincoln University, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. The bill allows for a total appropriation of $19,000,000 to support Lincoln University. It stipulates that payments for these appropriations will be made on the basis of actual costs incurred during the fiscal year and will be disbursed on a monthly basis. This is to ensure that the university has sufficient funding for its operations, educational services, and resource allocation throughout the year.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1461 has been largely positive among supporters who advocate for adequate funding of public universities and emphasize the importance of financial accountability. Proponents argue that the structured payment methodology will address funding gaps and support the long-term sustainability of Lincoln University. Nonetheless, there may be some skepticism regarding the impact of state oversight on the university's operational autonomy, which opponents might view as potentially bureaucratic.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussion around HB 1461 revolve around the restrictions placed on appropriated funds and the requirements for financial transparency. Some lawmakers have expressed concerns that mandates imposed by the bill, such as the obligation to file detailed financial reports, could create administrative burdens for the university. Additionally, specific limitations on how the appropriated funds can be utilized may draw criticism from those who advocate for greater flexibility in resource allocation, ensuring that the university can address its unique needs effectively.

Latest HB1461 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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