Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB943

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/22/25
• Refer: 7/22/25

Caption

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for will of the people.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment would significantly impact how governmental authorities interpret their powers and duties. By enshrining the will of the people as the highest law, it seeks to clarify the expectations for state governance and ensure that the intent of the framers of these constitutions is upheld. This could potentially limit the scope of interpretation by courts and government officials, reinforcing a strict adherence to the original language of constitutional texts. This, in turn, could influence the legislative framework in Pennsylvania regarding the relationship between citizen constituents and their elected representatives.

Summary

Senate Bill 943 is a proposed joint resolution that seeks to amend the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by incorporating a section titled 'Will of the People.' The primary purpose of this amendment is to affirm that the will of the people is the highest law in the Commonwealth. It mandates that all branches of government - legislative, executive, and judicial - must execute their powers and responsibilities in accordance with the explicit language and meaning of both the Pennsylvania Constitution and the United States Constitution as they were originally written.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 943 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the amendment is a necessary safeguard for democracy and public interest, ensuring that the people's voice is consistently prioritized in governance. They view it as a protective measure against potential overreach by government authorities. However, critics express concerns that this strict adherence to original constitutional text could lead to inflexibility in law and governance, potentially hindering the ability to adapt to contemporary issues and the evolving societal context.

Contention

Notable points of contention include whether this amendment might constrain judicial interpretation in a manner that could affect the rights and protections currently enjoyed by citizens. Detractors worry that focusing solely on the original meanings may overlook the necessity for progressive interpretations that reflect societal changes and advancements. The discussions around SB 943 might evoke broader debates about the balance of power among government branches and the safeguarding of democratic principles versus procedural rigidity.