Providing for the withholding of Commonwealth payments to the Federal Government; perfecting liens on Federal property; establishing a civil cause of action; and prohibiting the Commonwealth from sharing data with the Federal Government that contains personally identifiable information.
Impact
If enacted, HB1804 would significantly alter the state's legal framework by allowing the Commonwealth to withhold payments due to the Federal Government in situations where such payments are in contradiction to court decisions. This could lead to increased tensions between state and federal authorities and change how the Commonwealth engages in financial dealings with the Federal Government. The provisions for establishing liens could give the state greater leverage in ensuring compliance from Federal entities with Pennsylvania’s laws.
Summary
House Bill 1804, known as the Protect Pennsylvanians Act, seeks to establish provisions regarding the withholding of Commonwealth payments to the Federal Government under specific conditions, perfect liens on Federal property, and prohibits the sharing of personally identifiable information with Federal agencies. The bill aims to empower the state to act against perceived overreach from federal authorities, especially in relation to financial transactions and data privacy.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB1804 appears to be mixed. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step to protect state rights and ensure that Pennsylvanians' data remains secure from federal intrusion. Proponents likely appreciate the bill's focus on enhancing state autonomy and protecting citizens' privacy. However, critics voice concerns that the bill might foster divisiveness and escalate conflicts between state and federal governments, potentially leading to legal challenges and hindering the flow of federal funding for essential state programs.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB1804 include the implications of withholding Federal payments and the prohibition of data sharing. Critics argue that the bill could risk substantial funding vital for state operations and that such withholding may have negative consequences on services dependent on federal aid. Furthermore, the provision regarding data privacy raises concerns over how it might limit important collaborations between state and federal entities, creating potential barriers for state agencies that rely on shared data for program implementation and emergency responses.
Providing that any Federal action that attempts to register, restrict or ban a firearm or accessory, or to limit, inhibit or regulate the ownership of magazines in this Commonwealth shall be unenforceable in this Commonwealth; and imposing penalties.
Providing for the assessment of improper payments by Commonwealth agencies and for public information on payments and programs of Commonwealth agencies.
Preventing the Commonwealth from dealing with persons associated with the Government of Russia or the Government of Belarus; and imposing duties on the Treasury Department and the Attorney General.
Providing for liability for false claims, for adoption of congressional intent of the Federal False Claims Act, for damages, costs and civil penalties, for powers of Attorney General, for qui tam actions and for civil investigative demands.
Providing for the use of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identifier in all Commonwealth agency or entity blanks, forms, documents and applications; and imposing penalties.
Providing for the use of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identifier in all Commonwealth agency or entity blanks, forms, documents and applications; and imposing penalties.
Providing for a report on artificial intelligence in the workforce; and imposing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry and Department of Community and Economic Development.