Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB333

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/25
• Refer: 2/28/25

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review and for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review; providing for regulations deemed withdrawn; further providing for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations; and providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations.

Impact

The proposed changes would impact the Administrative Code of Pennsylvania, specifically streamlining the process through which regulations are reviewed and approved. By requiring detailed regulatory analysis forms and consistent procedural oversight, the bill aims to improve the transparency and accountability of regulatory actions. This could enhance the state’s regulatory environment by possibly reducing unnecessary burdens on businesses and ensuring that economic implications of regulations are taken into account before actual implementation.

Summary

Senate Bill 333 aims to amend the current framework governing the oversight and review of regulations in Pennsylvania. The bill specifically focuses on clarifying definitions related to proposed regulations and sets forth detailed procedures for their review. It establishes a mechanism that would determine if a regulation is considered 'economically significant' and thereby subject to additional scrutiny. A regulation that imposes costs exceeding $1,000,000 on the Commonwealth or local units would fall under this category, necessitating a more rigorous review and legislative approval before it can be enacted.

Sentiment

The reception of SB 333 appears to be mixed, with some stakeholders voicing concerns over increased legislative involvement in regulatory processes. Supporters argue this enhances checks and balances, while opponents fear it could delay or complicate necessary regulations aimed at public health and safety. The sentiment may vary among different regulatory agencies and industry groups, highlighting a balance between efficient governance and the need for comprehensive regulatory oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 333 include potential pushback from regulatory agencies fearing encroachment on their longstanding authority to manage and implement regulations swiftly. Moreover, detractors of the bill may argue that requiring concurrent resolutions for economically significant regulations could lead to logjams in policy implementation, thus hindering timely regulatory response to emerging issues.