Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB122

Introduced
1/16/25  

Caption

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, providing for jurisdiction of certain international organizations.

Impact

If enacted, HB 122 would amend Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically affecting the jurisdictional powers of international organizations within the state. This could lead to significant changes in how state laws interact with international agreements and guidelines. The bill reflects a move to limit the impact of international governance on state affairs, potentially impacting various sectors where international standards might play a role.

Summary

House Bill 122 aims to assert state sovereignty by explicitly stating that certain international organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations (UN), and the World Economic Forum (WEF), shall have no jurisdiction or power within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The bill seeks to prevent any rules, regulations, fees, taxes, or mandates issued by these organizations from being enforced or implemented by any state agency, department, or political entity. This legislative measure is a response to growing concerns regarding the influence of international bodies on state governance and law.

Sentiment

Discussions around HB 122 highlight a polarized sentiment regarding the role of international organizations in state governance. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary for protecting state sovereignty and ensuring that local laws are not superseded by international dictates. On the other hand, opponents may express concerns that isolating the state from international oversight could hinder Pennsylvania’s ability to address global issues such as public health and economic cooperation, particularly in a time of global crises.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications that such a bill might carry for Pennsylvania's engagement with international public health efforts and responses to global challenges. Critics may argue that denying the jurisdiction of organizations such as the WHO during pandemics could undermine public health initiatives in the state. Thus, the bill brings to the forefront a critical debate about the balance between state rights and the need for collaboration on international platforms to address complex, cross-border issues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2380

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, providing for jurisdiction of certain international organizations.

PA HB747

In organization of appellate courts, further providing for reassignment of matters; and, in organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for original jurisdiction and venue.

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 SB935

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA HB1786

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA HB2446

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA SB361

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for courts of common pleas.

PA SB948

In organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, further providing for courts of common pleas.

PA SB1216

Further providing for jurisdiction.

PA SB198

Further providing for definitions and for jurisdiction.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.