Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB355

Introduced
2/10/23  

Caption

In judicial review, providing for criminal penalty.

Impact

The impact of SB355 on state laws could be significant, particularly in how judicial processes are conducted and regulated. By introducing criminal penalties, the bill strives to create a more robust framework of accountability for judges and court officials. This could lead to changes in the way cases are reviewed and how judicial errors are addressed. The inclusion of penalties specifically linked to judicial review may reshape the legal landscape, enhancing the scrutiny applied to judicial actions and decisions.

Summary

Senate Bill 355 provides for the establishment of criminal penalties in the context of judicial review. This legislation aims to enhance accountability within the judicial system by introducing specific consequences for actions deemed unlawful during judicial review processes. The bill signals a shift towards ensuring that legal standards are strictly adhered to and that appropriate penalties are imposed for violations. Proponents of the bill argue that this is a much-needed reform that will strengthen the integrity of the judicial system and deter misconduct.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB355 appears to be mixed. Supporters view it as a proactive measure to curb judicial misconduct, protecting the rights of individuals involved in court proceedings. They believe that establishing clear penalties will foster greater integrity within the judiciary. However, detractors express concerns that such penalties might lead to overreach, discouraging judges from making bold decisions for fear of personal repercussions. This has led to a debate about balancing accountability and judicial independence.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB355 include concerns about the potential chilling effect it could have on judges, who may become less willing to rule against powerful interests or take risks in their legal interpretations. Critics argue that the bill could undermine the impartiality of the judicial system by introducing fear of retribution for decisions that might be legally sound but politically unpopular. The tension between ensuring accountability and preserving judicial discretion is a focal point of the ongoing dialogue about this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB869

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer and for retention of records; and, in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty.

PA HB302

In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA SB210

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in procedure, further providing for written requests; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA HB868

In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA SB350

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in procedure, further providing for written requests; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA SB657

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in requirements and prohibitions, providing for Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association; in access, further providing for open-records officer, for appeals officer, for regulations and policies, for requests and for retention of records; in procedure, further providing for requests, for written requests, for electronic access, for creation of record, for production of certain records and for exceptions for public records; in agency response, further providing for general rule and for extension of time; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for filing of appeal and for appeals officers; in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty and for Office of Open Records; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for relation to other laws.

PA HB99

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer, for appeals officer, for regulations and policies, for uniform form, for requests and for retention of records and providing for inmate access; in procedure, further providing for written requests, for redaction, for production of certain records and for exceptions for public records; in agency response, further providing for extension of time and providing for relief from vexatious requesters; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for filing of appeal and for appeals officers; in judicial review, further providing for court costs and attorney fees, for civil penalty, for fee limitations and for Office of Open Records; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for relation to other laws.

PA SB996

In actions, proceedings and other matters generally, providing for reporting of deaths; and imposing penalties.

PA SB821

Providing for protection of personal information from public agencies; and imposing penalties.

PA HB721

Further providing for definitions, for improper classification of employees and for criminal penalties; providing for private right of action; further providing for administrative penalties, for retaliation for action prohibited, for availability of information, for use of penalty funds and for funding; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.