Pennsylvania House Bill HB124

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/16/25

Caption

Further providing for proposed regulations and procedures for review.

Impact

If enacted, HB 124 would significantly alter the current procedures under which regulations are proposed and reviewed in Pennsylvania. By mandating agencies to demonstrate how international guidance applies to the state and to justify the reliability of the data used in these analyses, the bill aims to create a higher standard for regulatory compliance. This could potentially slow down the process of implementing new regulations, as agencies would need to gather and present robust evidence before moving forward. Moreover, it could lead to a more critical examination of how global standards are adopted at the state level, particularly in public health and safety measures.

Summary

House Bill 124 seeks to amend the Regulatory Review Act of Pennsylvania by introducing new requirements for agencies when submitting proposed regulations. Specifically, the bill requires agencies to submit a regulatory analysis form that includes detailed information whenever proposed regulations accept or adopt guidance from international organizations such as the World Health Organization or the United Nations. This amendment is intended to enhance the accountability and transparency of the regulatory process in the state, ensuring that any international guidance is explicitly justified and supported by verifiable data.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 124 appears to be mixed. Proponents view the bill as a necessary step towards ensuring that state regulations are not unduly influenced by external entities without rigorous scrutiny. This perspective underscores a desire for increased oversight in regulatory matters and aims to protect local interests. However, opponents might argue that such requirements could hinder prompt legislative action and responsiveness, particularly in emergencies where swift regulatory changes might be necessary, indicating a broader concern about the balance between necessary oversight and bureaucratic efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 124 include concerns about its potential to create additional layers of bureaucracy in the regulatory process. Critics may argue that by requiring extensive documentation and justification for the acceptance of international guidance, the bill could delay important regulatory updates, especially in sectors that are rapidly evolving, such as health care. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about how this requirement would affect local agencies' ability to respond effectively to public needs, particularly when quick adaptation to global standards could be beneficial.