Pennsylvania House Bill HB2265

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/3/24
• Refer: 5/3/24
• Refer: 6/5/24
• Report Pass: 6/27/24
• Refer: 6/27/24
• Engrossed: 6/28/24
• Refer: 6/30/24
• Refer: 9/30/24
• Report Pass: 10/22/24
• Enrolled: 10/23/24
• Chaptered: 10/31/24
• Passed: 10/31/24

Caption

In powers and duties of elected officials, further providing for organization of council, quorum, participation by telecommunication device, voting, compensation and eligibility; and, in mayor, further providing for salary of mayor.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2265 would have significant implications for local governance in Pennsylvania by enabling councils to set salaries that are more reflective of the economic realities faced by different boroughs. The increase in maximum allowable compensation for council members across various population categories indicates an effort to attract and retain capable officials in local government. Moreover, the provisions for alternative forms of compensation based on meeting attendance offer flexibility and accountability in how council members are compensated for their public service.

Summary

House Bill 2265 aims to amend Title 8 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which pertains to boroughs and incorporated towns, particularly focusing on the powers and duties of elected officials. The bill proposes changes in the organization of the borough council, including stipulations about quorum requirements, voting procedures, and the compensation scheme for council members and mayors. Notably, the compensation for council members would be adjusted based on population size, establishing new maximum salary limits for various population brackets. This seeks to ensure that compensation is proportionate and fair according to the size of the municipality.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding this bill is generally positive among supporters who believe that fair compensation for elected local officials is essential for effective governance. Proponents argue that increasing salaries will encourage greater participation in local politics and improve governance quality. However, there are concerns raised by some stakeholders about the financial implications of increasing salaries, particularly in smaller boroughs where budget constraints are more pronounced. This debate emphasizes the balancing act between fair compensation for public service and fiscal responsibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the equity of salary increases across different boroughs and how this might affect local budgets. Critics argue that while the intention is to enhance support for local governance, there might be unintended consequences, such as increasing reliance on taxpayer funds or reducing funding for other local initiatives. Additionally, the mechanisms for determining eligibility for compensation based on attendance may be scrutinized, as it could lead to disputes over what constitutes an excused absence, thereby affecting overall council efficiency.