Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR334

Introduced

9/18/24

Refer

9/18/24

Passed

10/8/24

Caption

Directing the President of the Senate to instruct the Sergeant-at-Arms to bring Patrick M. Browne, Secretary of Revenue, before the bar of the Senate for refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by the Committee on Intergovernmental Operations.

Impact

The introduction of SR334 signifies a strong stance on legislative oversight and accountability. By enforcing compliance with subpoenas, the Senate is reinstating its authority in supervising the actions of the executive branch. This action could set a precedent for future interactions between legislative committees and state officials, reinforcing the principle that government officials must be accountable to the legislature. Such a resolution highlights the importance of checks and balances within state governance.

Summary

Senate Resolution 334 (SR334) was introduced to direct the President of the Senate to instruct the Sergeant-at-Arms to summon Patrick M. Browne, the Secretary of Revenue, to appear before the Senate for his refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by the Committee on Intergovernmental Operations. This resolution is aimed at enforcing accountability among state officials and ensuring that governmental operations can be properly scrutinized. The ability of the Senate to compel attendance and testimony is a crucial aspect of its oversight capabilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR334 reflects a commitment to legislative authority and accountability. Supporters emphasize the need for transparency and responsiveness from state officials. However, there may be underlying tensions regarding the implications of such actions for the independence of administrative functions. The discourse indicates a robust commitment to ensuring that executive branch personnel fulfill their obligations to the legislature, while detractors may express concerns about the politicization of such enforcement mechanisms.

Contention

The core contention of SR334 arises from the refusal of Secretary Browne to comply with an earlier subpoena, which raises issues of governmental authority and institutional respect. Critics may argue that such resolutions could lead to conflicts between the executive and legislative branches, as officials may view the enforcement of subpoenas as an encroachment on their duties. This ongoing discourse around SR334 exemplifies the tensions inherent in legislative oversight efforts, particularly regarding the balance of power and the integrity of institutional processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR359

Proposing a special rule of practice and procedure in the Senate when sitting on the refusal to comply with a subpoena issued by a Senate standing committee.

PA SR110

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a performance audit of the Neighborhood Improvement Zone and Allentown Neighborhood Improvement Zone Development Authority programs administered by the Department of Revenue.

PA HB1001

Allow the Government Operations and Audit Committee to issue subpoenas without Executive Board approval.

PA SCR88

Instructing the enrolling clerk of the senate to make corrections in S.B. No. 1495.

PA SR837

An original resolution authorizing the President of the Senate to certify the report of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate regarding the refusal of Dr. Ralph de la Torre to appear and testify before the Committee.

PA SR197

Requests the Senate Committee on Revenue and Fiscal Affairs to study the potential benefit of an economic tax incentive to vessel owners that purchase boats and barges built in the state and for those who domicile their vessel operations/home base within the state.

PA HR1292

Recommending that the House of Representatives find United States Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in contempt of Congress for refusal to comply with a subpoena duly issued by the Committee on the Judiciary.

PA HB276

State Board of Physical Therapy, authorize to issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents.

PA SB2821

State Board of Physical Therapy; authorize Board to issue subpoenas.

PA SR149

Requests the Senate Committee on Judiciary B and the Senate Committee on Revenue and Fiscal Affairs to meet jointly to study iGaming and report study findings to the Louisiana Senate.

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