PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HR185

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR185

Introduced
4/9/25  

Caption

Amending House Rule 45 (a), further providing for government oversight committee.

Impact

The implementation of HR185 is set to reinforce the role of the Government Oversight Committee, which would significantly affect how investigations are conducted concerning public trust and government accountability. By establishing a detailed procedure for the committee's operations, including the requirement for meetings to have a specified advance notice and the ability to conduct hearings at various locations, the resolution aims to streamline oversight processes. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of confidentiality for referred matters until determined otherwise by the committee, which may influence public perception of transparency in legislative reviews.

Summary

House Resolution 185 (HR185) seeks to amend House Rule 45(a), specifically addressing the structure and functions of the Government Oversight Committee within the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The resolution proposes a defined composition of the committee, allowing for nine members - five from the majority party and four from the minority party, appointed by their respective leaders. This amendment aims to enhance the committee's ability to conduct investigations and oversee government actions, particularly in relation to executive agencies and administrative actions, ensuring that proper legislative oversight is maintained throughout the term of the assembly.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HR185 appears generally supportive among those advocating for stronger government accountability measures. Proponents argue that clearer rules and structure for the Oversight Committee will enhance its effectiveness, ultimately benefitting the democratic process. However, some critics express concerns regarding the potential for partisanship in the committee's function since the majority party holds more seats, which could lead to investigations being influenced by political agendas rather than being purely objective.

Contention

Notable points of contention include apprehensions about the oversight powers given to the committee as defined in HR185. The fact that investigation matters are to be kept confidential unless both the majority and minority chairs agree to make them public raises concerns about transparency. Critics worry that while the intent is to bolster government oversight, the mechanisms established could instead enable political manipulation under the guise of oversight, potentially undermining the public's trust in legislative processes.

Latest HR185 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

PA SB543

In optional affordable housing funding, further providing for affordable housing programs fee in counties, providing for reporting requirements and for Pennsylvania Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

PA SB609

In optional affordable housing funding, further providing for affordable housing programs fee in counties and providing for reporting requirements and for Pennsylvania Affordable Housing Advisory Committee; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

PA HB1085

Providing for Indigent Defense Advisory Committee; and establishing the Indigent Defense Grant Program.

PA SB371

Providing for Indigent Defense Advisory Committee; and establishing the Indigent Defense Grant Program.

PA HR253

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to establish a task force and advisory committee on increasing access to drug and alcohol treatment for substance use disorders; and directing the task force to make recommendations to the General Assembly.

PA HB157

In Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark, further providing for definitions, for Pennsylvania Preferred® trademark, for licensee qualification, for duties and authority of department, for trademark license agreement, application and licensure process, for costs, for Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark Licensing Fund, for injunctive relief, for rules and regulations and for purpose, repealing provisions relating to definitions and further providing for qualified veterans and qualified veteran business entities.

PA SR178

Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study evaluating the outcomes of Act 44 of 2018 and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations.

PA HB1046

Establishing the Pennsylvania Poet Laureate and the Pennsylvania Poet Laureate Nomination Committee; and providing for their powers and duties.