Pennsylvania House Bill HB1718

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/23
• Refer: 9/26/23

Caption

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for removal of municipal officers.

Impact

The proposed amendment, if passed, would significantly impact the governance structure within municipalities across Pennsylvania. It would standardize the removal process for elected officials, potentially making it easier to hold them accountable for misconduct. This change is seen as a way to affirm public trust in local governments and could lead to stricter adherence to responsibilities by municipal officers. However, it may also raise concerns about the potential for increased political maneuvering in the removal of officials, depending on how the 'cause' for removal is defined and applied.

Summary

House Bill 1718 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Constitution of Pennsylvania to outline the procedures for the removal of municipal officers. The bill seeks to establish a uniform general law governing the removal process, emphasizing that elected officials can only be removed for defined causes such as absenteeism, dereliction of duty, moral misconduct, or abuse of power. This measure reflects an effort to enhance government accountability at the local level, ensuring that municipal officers can be held responsible for their actions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1718 appears to be cautiously supportive, with proponents emphasizing the necessity of having clear accountability measures for local elected officials. Supporters argue that this amendment will deter misconduct and promote integrity in local governance. However, there may be apprehension from some quarters regarding the implications of the bill on political stability and the risk of misuse of removal procedures for partisan gains.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over what constitutes appropriate grounds for removal and concerns about the potential for this process to undermine the stability of local governance. Critics may argue that without strict and transparent guidelines, the bill could be used for politically motivated removals. Additionally, the bill's process for initial and subsequent passage through the General Assembly and its implications for local municipalities need careful consideration to balance accountability with the respect for elected officials' autonomy.