Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB212

Introduced

1/17/25

Refer

1/17/25

Caption

Further providing for definitions.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 212 on state laws includes enhanced regulatory oversight of charitable fundraising practices. By explicitly delineating what qualifies as a contribution, the bill may help prevent misunderstandings and misinterpretations that could lead to violations of fundraising laws. This clarity is intended to protect both the organizations soliciting funds and the individuals contributing, ensuring compliance with established legal frameworks governing charitable actions.

Summary

House Bill 212, introduced in Pennsylvania, seeks to amend the Solicitation of Funds for Charitable Purposes Act. The primary focus of this bill is to clarify the definition of 'contribution' as it pertains to fundraising activities by charitable organizations and professional fundraisers. By refining these definitions, the bill aims to improve regulatory clarity surrounding contributions made to charities in response to solicitations and outlines what constitutes acceptable forms of financial assistance, excluding volunteer services.

Sentiment

The sentiments surrounding the bill appear to be generally supportive, particularly among legislators who recognize the need for clearer guidelines in the charitable sector. However, there may also be some concerns regarding the implications for smaller organizations that rely heavily on grassroots fundraising and community support. Overall, the atmosphere reflects a shared recognition of the importance of safeguarding the integrity of charitable contributions while fostering a compliant fundraising environment.

Contention

There remain points of contention regarding the breadth of the definitions and their application. Potential debates may arise over whether the exclusions of certain types of contributions, such as government grants or services provided for membership fees, could inadvertently hinder some fundraising efforts. Stakeholders will likely be keen to analyze this bill's provisions closely to ensure it does not pose unintended barriers to legitimate fundraising initiatives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1606

Further providing for definitions.

PA HB794

Further providing for definitions, for registration of charitable organizations, financial reports, fees and failure to file, for registration of professional solicitors, contract and disclosure requirements, bonds, records and books and for administrative enforcement and penalties.

PA HB1394

Further providing for definitions.

PA HB2525

Further providing for definitions and for private actions.

PA HB829

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions;

PA HB1170

Further providing for title of act; in purpose, short title and definitions, further providing for definitions and construction; in organization of the board, further providing for appointment and terms of members and quorum; in licenses of milk dealers, further providing for grounds for refusal, suspension or revocation; in moneys and expenses of board, further providing for expenses and for payment; and, in saving provisions, repealing provisions relating to Joint Study Committee.

PA HB1977

Further providing for definitions and for unlawful acts or practices and exclusions.

PA SB656

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in liquid fuels and fuels tax, further providing for definitions and for imposition of tax, exemptions and deductions and providing for electric vehicle road user charge; and imposing a penalty.

PA HB86

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA SB82

In short title and definitions, further providing for

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.