Pennsylvania House Bill HB2324

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/10/24
• Refer: 4/10/24
• Refer: 6/25/24
• Report Pass: 6/26/24
• Refer: 6/26/24

Caption

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023.

Impact

The implications of HB 2324 on state laws are significant as it outlines funding for various essential sectors, including education, health services, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. By specifying allocation amounts to these departments, the bill ensures that every critical service receives sufficient funding to carry out its responsibilities. Additionally, this bill plans for the continuation of services even for bills that may have accrued during the previous fiscal year, which can help maintain operational continuity for various state programs.

Summary

House Bill 2324 focuses on providing appropriations from the General Fund for various expenses necessary for the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth for the fiscal year from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. The appropriations also extend to public debt and public schools, covering both ongoing expenses and past due bills as of June 30, 2024. This bill aims to ensure that all governmental functions continue operating smoothly without financial interruptions, thus suggesting a control mechanism for fiscal stability within state operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2324 appears to be generally supportive among state legislators, as it seeks to secure necessary funding for essential services that affect many aspects of residents' lives, such as education and public health. However, there may be debates regarding specific allocations within the bill, as priorities differ among party lines; this could lead to discussions about whether resources are appropriately allocated according to pressing community needs. Further consideration will likely focus on how these appropriations impact the efficiency and effectiveness of local government services.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the appropriations for various departments, particularly if there are perceptions that certain sectors such as education or public health are underfunded compared to others. Moreover, how the bill addresses unresolved expenses from prior years may spark debate, as some legislators may advocate for a more robust approach to managing ongoing financial challenges faced by local governments. The passage of HB 2324 will thus highlight the ongoing discussions about the state's fiscal priorities and responsibilities toward its citizens.