Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2318

Introduced
5/22/24  

Caption

In authority of Department of Transportation, further providing for aircraft for official use.

Impact

The passage of HB2318 would lead to an alteration in how the state manages its transportation resources, specifically concerning aviation. By formalizing the authority of the Department of Transportation to utilize aircraft, it may open the door to increased accountability and regulations regarding the use of state-owned aircraft. The bill is designed to ensure that these resources are used for governmental activities, potentially leading to policy changes that seek to prevent misuse and establish guidelines for authorized personnel access.

Summary

House Bill 2318 aims to authorize the Department of Transportation to provide aircraft for official use. This bill seeks to enhance the operational efficiency and flexibility of the state's transportation logistics, especially for government officials and departments that require air transport for official duties. The provisions included in HB2318 could streamline travel for state officials, facilitating quicker response times for state business, which can be crucial during emergencies or in urgent matters requiring immediate attention.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2318 appears to be largely supportive, with proponents arguing that it is necessary to enhance governmental efficiency. Most discussions suggest that acknowledging the logistical needs of state officials through access to aircraft will ultimately serve the state's interests by promoting better governance. However, there are concerns regarding potential misuse and the need for transparency about how and when such aircraft would be employed, sparking a range of reactions that balance efficiency against accountability.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the potential for this bill to be perceived as an unnecessary expenditure, given the costs associated with operating aircraft for official purposes. Critics may argue that resources should be allocated elsewhere, or that the state should utilize existing transportation methods more effectively. Additionally, there may be discussions on whether such enhancements infringe upon more sustainable transportation practices and considerations, like the environmental impact of increased aviation activities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB398

In authority of Department of Transportation, further providing for aircraft for official use.

PA HB3951

Relating to the functions of the Texas Department of Transportation relating to aircraft owned or leased by the state; authorizing an increase in rates charged for the use of state aircraft to provide for the acquisition of replacement aircraft.

PA SB572

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions, for restricted activities, for statement of financial interests and for penalties; in lobbying disclosure, further providing for definitions, for reporting and for penalties; and, in Turnpike Commission standards of conduct, further providing for code of conduct.

PA SB97

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions, for restricted activities, for statement of financial interests and for penalties; in lobbying disclosure, further providing for definitions, for reporting and for penalties; and, in Turnpike Commission standards of conduct, further providing for code of conduct.

PA HB3207

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; authorizing an increase in rates charged for the use of state aircraft to provide for the acquisition of replacement aircraft.

PA SB312

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; authorizing an increase in rates charged for the use of state aircraft to provide for the acquisition of replacement aircraft; creating a criminal offense.

PA HB2108

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission, providing for prohibition and further providing for accountability.

PA SB420

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for speed timing devices; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

PA SB542

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for speed timing devices; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

PA HB902

In transportation network companies, further providing for impoundment of vehicles, repealing provisions relating to assessment and providing for payment of assessment; in taxation for public transportation, further providing for local financial support; in fees, further providing for fee for local use; and imposing duties on the Department of Revenue and the Department of Transportation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.