PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB226

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB226

Introduced
2/3/25  
Refer
2/3/25  
Refer
5/7/25  
Report Pass
5/12/25  
Engrossed
5/12/25  

Caption

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

Impact

The potential impact of SB226 on state laws revolves around increased public access to governmental records, particularly those related to state-affiliated entities such as various commissions and educational agencies. This additional clarity might lead to a more straightforward approach for citizens seeking information regarding the actions and operations of these entities. The bill could also encourage more proactive disclosure practices amongst state-affiliated entities, thus fostering a culture of openness.

Summary

Senate Bill 226 aims to amend the Right-to-Know Law by further defining the term 'State-affiliated entity.' This bill intends to clarify which entities fall under the purview of this legislation, thereby enhancing accountability and transparency in governmental operations. By clearly delineating the types of agencies and entities that are considered state-affiliated, stakeholders may find it easier to understand their rights to access information as provided by the law.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB226 appears to be generally positive, especially among proponents of transparency and reform. Supporters argue that by enhancing definitions related to public access to information, the bill aligns with good governance practices. However, there may be some contention regarding the nuances of the definition itself and whether it adequately encompasses all entities that should be held accountable under the Right-to-Know provisions.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the specific definitions used within the bill, particularly around what constitutes a 'State-affiliated entity.' Opponents may argue that the language used could either broaden or unnecessarily restrict access to information. The discussions surrounding this bill may reflect a larger trend in balancing governmental transparency with the practicalities of managing state operations and responsibilities.

Latest PA SB226 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session SB226

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1183

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA HB86

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA HB829

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions;

PA SB210

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in procedure, further providing for written requests; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA HB1342

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.

PA HB2456

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA SB657

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in requirements and prohibitions, providing for Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association; in access, further providing for open-records officer, for appeals officer, for regulations and policies, for requests and for retention of records; in procedure, further providing for requests, for written requests, for electronic access, for creation of record, for production of certain records and for exceptions for public records; in agency response, further providing for general rule and for extension of time; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for filing of appeal and for appeals officers; in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty and for Office of Open Records; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for relation to other laws.

PA SB455

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA SB612

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA HB2450

In preliminary provisions relating to retirement for school employees, further providing for definitions.

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