Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB121

Introduced
1/6/23  
Refer
1/6/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
2/28/23  
Engrossed
2/28/23  

Caption

In general provisions, providing for restrictions on appropriations; and making a repeal.

Impact

By capping the funding to the Pennsylvania State Police, SB121 will have significant implications for law enforcement operations within the state. The gradual reduction in appropriations could lead to constraints in resources available for policing, impacting various aspects of law enforcement including personnel, training, and public safety initiatives. Consequently, local law enforcement agencies may need to adjust their budgets and operational capacities in response to these changes in funding dynamics.

Summary

Senate Bill 121 addresses appropriations from the Motor License Fund in Pennsylvania, establishing limits to the funding allocated to the Pennsylvania State Police for the next six fiscal years. The bill specifies that appropriations will gradually decrease from $250 million in fiscal year 2023-2024 to $0 by fiscal year 2028-2029. The intent behind this legislation appears to focus on streamlining appropriations and ensuring fiscal responsibility while addressing concerns related to police funding.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB121 has been mixed among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill promotes fiscal responsibility and accountability in government spending, while critics express concerns over the potential negative impact on public safety due to diminished police resources. The debate highlights a tension between managing budgetary constraints and maintaining adequate funding for law enforcement agencies.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SB121 include discussions on the implications of reduced funding for police services, with some arguing that it could lead to dire consequences in terms of crime prevention and community safety. Opponents of the bill have raised alarm about the likelihood of increased pressure on local police departments, suggesting that such significant budget cuts could hinder their ability to effectively serve their communities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1092

In regulation of insurers and related persons generally, providing for rebates and inducements; and making repeals.

PA SB656

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in liquid fuels and fuels tax, further providing for definitions and for imposition of tax, exemptions and deductions and providing for electric vehicle road user charge; and imposing a penalty.

PA HB1648

Providing for right-to-know; making repeals; and making editorial changes.

PA HB61

In general provisions, providing for electronic tax lien filing and centralized repository; and making a repeal.

PA HB744

Further providing for definitions, for creation of program, for incubator grants, loans and loan guarantees and for responsibilities of local sponsors; repealing provisions relating to challenge grants for seed capital funds; further providing for general powers and duties of the board and for indicators of program impact; providing for funding sources; repealing provisions relating to time limit on approvals; and making a repeal.

PA HB849

In emergency COVID-19 response, providing for adult mental health program funding; in 2022-2023 budget implementation, repealing provisions relating to Department of Human Services; and making appropriations.

PA HB85

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in liquid fuels and fuels tax, further providing for definitions and for imposition of tax, exemptions and deductions and providing for pilot program for electric vehicle fee; imposing duties on the Department of Revenue; and making an editorial change.

PA HB1273

In personal income tax, repealing provisions relating to electronic payment and to additions, penalties and fees; in general provisions, providing for method of payment; and making a repeal.

PA HB522

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in rules of the road in general, providing for pilot program for automated speed enforcement systems in school zones.

PA HB1162

In special funds, providing for Public Safety and Protection Fund; and, in general budget implementation, further providing for Motor License Fund.

Similar Bills

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB360

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD HB200

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD SB181

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

PA HB611

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, 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; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD HB300

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2023)