Pennsylvania House Bill HB1667

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/12/23
• Refer: 9/12/23

Caption

Providing for legislative procedure.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 1667 is significant, as it encourages greater accountability among legislators by clearly outlining the rationale for proposed laws. By requiring a preamble, this bill aims to provide both lawmakers and the public with a better understanding of the legislative objectives, which could lead to more informed debates and discussions. The requirement for a clear statement of purpose may also assist in aligning the discussion with the intended outcomes of the legislation.

Summary

House Bill 1667 seeks to amend Title 1 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by introducing a new chapter focused on legislative procedures. A key provision of the bill requires that any bill or joint resolution presented in the General Assembly must include a preamble that states the original purpose of the legislation. This change is aimed at enhancing transparency in the legislative process, ensuring that the intentions behind each piece of legislation are clear from the outset.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1667 appears to be generally favorable among proponents who advocate for increased transparency and clarity in government. Supporters may see this bill as a step toward more responsible governance, fostering a culture where legislators are more thoughtfully engaged in articulating their intentions. However, some might express concerns about the implications of the additional administrative responsibility this creates for legislators, arguing that too many procedural requirements may impede the legislative process.

Contention

Notable points of contention might arise regarding how the requirement for a preamble could affect the efficiency of the legislative process. Critics could argue that requiring a clear statement of original purpose for each bill may lead to lengthy deliberations or overly complex explanations that complicate straightforward legislation. Furthermore, debates may center around the interpretation of what constitutes a sufficient preamble and whether it serves to clarify or obscure the legislative intent.