Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB439

Introduced
3/15/23  

Caption

In special powers and duties of the county, further providing for markers on graves, memorial certificates and headstones.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 439 could significantly streamline processes related to the authorization and maintenance of grave markers and memorials. By clarifying the responsibilities of counties, the bill may lead to more uniform practices across different regions, allowing for better management of these memorial sites. As counties implement these guidelines, it could enhance local engagement in memorial practices and reflect community values about remembrance and respect for the deceased.

Summary

House Bill 439 focuses on enhancing the special powers and duties of counties regarding the management and provision of markers on graves, memorial certificates, and headstones. The bill seeks to provide clearer guidelines and possibly expand authorities that local governments can exert over these memorial practices. This legislation acknowledges the importance of commemorative practices in recognizing individual and community memories linked to burial sites and memorials.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 439 appears to be generally positive, particularly among advocates for improved memorial practices. Supporters likely view the bill as a necessary step in recognizing and formalizing the importance of memorials in local contexts. However, there may also be some concerns regarding the implications of increased authority for counties and how that power might be exercised in diverse communities.

Contention

A notable point of contention could arise concerning the extent of authority that counties will receive under this bill. While the aim is to create consistency and improve memorial practices, some might argue about the potential for administrative overreach or a lack of flexibility in local customs regarding memorialization. Moreover, ongoing dialogue is necessary to ensure that the bill respects the wishes of families and communities related to memorial practices, while also complying with any broader regulatory framework.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB597

In powers and duties, further providing for powers and duties of counties.

PA HB1090

In special powers and duties of counties, providing for property maintenance code.

PA HB1981

In special powers and duties of counties, providing for county humane officers.

PA HB05487

An Act Concerning The Taxation Of Headstones And Grave Markers.

PA HB1874

In certification of teachers, further providing for certificates qualifying persons to teach and providing for special temporary certificate for veterans.

PA HB546

Further providing for powers and duties of department.

PA HB39

In special powers and duties of counties, providing for other powers and duties of county humane officers.

PA HB759

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and, in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

PA HB273

In county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

PA HB1498

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and, in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.