Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1901

Introduced

12/8/23

Refer

12/8/23

Caption

Further providing for searchable budget database and for administration.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1901 would require the Department of General Services to post settlement information within 30 days of a settlement being paid. It would also necessitate that the department regularly updates the General Assembly about these settlements. The implications of this bill include increased oversight on financial transactions relating to employee settlements, potentially leading to more informed decisions by taxpayers and legislators. By making this information publicly available, the bill aims to foster a culture of accountability for government spending and settlement practices.

Summary

House Bill 1901 seeks to amend the Pennsylvania Web Accountability and Transparency (PennWATCH) Act to enhance the searchable budget database and provide clearer parameters around the disclosure of settlements involving Commonwealth agency employees. The bill mandates that details of settlements paid to employees or individuals due to agency actions be made available online, including information such as the agency involved, the amount of the settlement, and the basis for the claim. This move aims to increase governmental transparency and accountability regarding how public funds are managed and disbursed in the context of legal settlements.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1901 appears to be generally positive among its supporters, who argue that the bill is a necessary step towards making government operations more transparent and holding public agencies accountable to the taxpayers they serve. However, some concerns have been raised about the potential administrative burden this could impose on agencies and whether it may inadvertently affect the confidentiality of certain sensitive claims. The debate reflects a common tension in legislative discussions between transparency and operational efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the balance between public access to information and the protection of sensitive data that could be exempt from disclosure under existing laws. Critics may argue that while transparency is essential, certain settlements should remain confidential to protect the privacy of individuals involved or the strategic interests of the Commonwealth. Thus, HB 1901 stands as a significant legislative proposal aimed at redefining the standards for transparency in government settlements, opening the floor for ongoing discussions on legislative intent and public accountability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB810

Further providing for searchable budget database and for administration.

PA HB1130

In food protection, further providing for definitions and providing for reporting of GRAS substances and for public database of GRAS reports.

PA S631

Provides for development of searchable "Municipal Penalty Database."

PA S1654

Provides for development of searchable "Municipal Penalty Database."

PA HB1261

In administration and miscellaneous provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the Public School Employees' Retirement Board; and, in administration, funds, accounts and general provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the State Employees' Retirement Board.

PA HB1375

PA HB401

In 2022-2023 budget implementation, further providing for Department of Human Services.

PA SB225

In general budget implementation, further providing for Federal and Commonwealth use of forest land.

PA HB1714

Further providing for administration and for penalties.

PA HB1154

In general budget implementation, further providing for Department of Health.

Similar Bills

PA SB1051

In corporate net income tax, further providing for definitions; in procedure and administration, further providing for petition for reassessment and for review by board and providing for settlement conference process, for closing agreements and for report to General Assembly; and, in general provisions, further providing for timely filing.