Pennsylvania House Bill HR492

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/1/24
• Refer: 7/1/24

Caption

House Concurrent Regulatory Review Resolution disapproving the Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs regulations on Consideration of Criminal Convictions. (Editorial Note: Final action by the House on this resolution must occur within 30 calendar days or 10 legislative days following its date of report from committee, whichever is later.)

Impact

If adopted, HR492 would prevent the Bureau from implementing the contested regulations, which could alter how criminal convictions might influence individuals' eligibility for professional licensure. By disapproving these regulations, the resolution introduces a significant shift in ensuring that the decisions affecting professional licensure remain under legislative purview, potentially impacting a wide range of professions and individuals with criminal records seeking to enter regulated fields.

Summary

House Resolution 492, introduced by Representative Burns, seeks to disapprove the proposed regulations by the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs regarding the consideration of criminal convictions in professional licensure. The bill emerges in the context of regulatory oversight, emphasizing the need for legislative control over regulatory actions. This resolution follows a series of steps where the Independent Regulatory Review Commission initially disapproved the regulations before they were revised and resubmitted for consideration. With this resolution, the House is signaling its intent to halt bureaucratic actions that could potentially impact the licensing process for various professions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR492 appears to be focused on concerns about regulatory overreach and the importance of legislative authority in the regulatory process. Supporters of the resolution likely view it as a necessary check on bureaucratic power, ensuring accountability and public input in decisions that affect professional licensing. Conversely, opponents may perceive the resolution as obstructing the Bureau's efforts to implement guidelines that could potentially modernize and clarify the licensing process concerning criminal convictions.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HR492 may center on the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches in regulating professional conduct. Proponents of the resolution might argue that disapproving those regulations protects individuals' rights and prevents potential discrimination. Meanwhile, opponents may assert that this disapproval could hinder the Bureau's ability to enforce regulations that are critical for safeguarding public trust and maintaining professional standards.