Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1189

Introduced
5/17/24  

Caption

In budget and finance, further providing for expenses.

Impact

The passage of SB1189 would have a significant impact on the fiscal responsibilities of the Office of the Court Administrator, as it introduces a systematic increase in the registration fees tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Urban Workers. Beginning January 1, 2025, the increase will occur annually based on the previous year's CPI, facilitating a sustainable funding mechanism that adjusts for inflation. As such, it aims to alleviate financial pressures on the judiciary's budget over time, promoting more stable administrative operations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1189 is an act that amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically focusing on expenses related to the Office of the Court Administrator of Pennsylvania. The bill proposes to increase the annual registration fee for judges from $200 to $600 for each magisterial district judge, which includes the Philadelphia Municipal Court Judges. This change is aimed at ensuring that the funding meets the rising costs associated with judicial operations and maintaining the relevant administrative resources.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1189 appears generally supportive, given that both legislative sponsors and advocates for judicial efficiency see the necessity of updating the funding mechanism for judges. However, concerns may arise regarding the potential burden of increased fees on local judicial districts. While proponents argue this is a necessary adjustment, some stakeholders might express apprehension about how the increased financial requirements could impact local governments and their budgets.

Contention

Notable points of contention may include the timing and extent of the fee increase, especially in light of varying economic conditions that different localities face. Some may argue that raising fees could disproportionately affect smaller districts with limited resources, thereby complicating the local judiciary's ability to meet state compliance. The discussions around SB1189 are likely to highlight the balance between adequate funding for the judiciary and the fiscal capabilities of local governments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2342

In budget and finance, further providing for expenses.

PA HB1449

In budget and finance, further providing for expenses.

PA SB701

In budget and finance, further providing for expenses.

PA HB239

In governance of the system, further providing for costs; in budget and finance, further providing for Commonwealth portion of fines, etc; and, in facilities and supplies, further providing for deposits into account.

PA HB412

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for problem-solving courts; and, in magisterial district judges, further providing for jurisdiction and venue.

PA SB362

In budget and finance, further providing for county portion of fines, etc.; in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for railroad trains not to block crossings; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1266

In governance of the system, further providing for costs; in budget and finance, further providing for Commonwealth portion of fines, etc; in facilities and supplies, further providing for deposits into account and for surcharge; and making a repeal.

PA HB190

In enforcement, further providing for jurisdiction and penalties; in sentencing, further providing for sentencing generally, for fine, for collection of restitution, reparation, fees, costs, fines and penalties and for payment of court costs, restitution and fines, repealing provisions relating to fine and further providing for failure to pay fine; in licensing of drivers, repealing provisions relating to suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation, providing for fee for restoration of operating privilege and further providing for restoration of operating privilege, for occupational limited license and for probationary license; in financial responsibility, further providing for definitions; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, repealing provisions relating to inability to pay fine and costs.

PA SB334

In sentencing, further providing for payment of court costs, restitution and fines, for fine and for failure to pay fine; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege for failure to respond to citation; and, in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for inability to pay fine and costs.

PA SB894

In magisterial district judges, further providing for jurisdiction and venue; in abandoned vehicles and cargos, further providing for reports by garage keepers of abandoned vehicles; and providing for garage or repair shop liens.

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