PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR4

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR4

Introduced
1/7/25  

Caption

Adopting Ethical Conduct Rules of the Senate.

Impact

The approval of SR4 will have a significant impact on how conduct is regulated within the Pennsylvania Senate. By implementing these ethical standards, the Senate aims to promote a work environment free from harassment and discrimination, thereby adhering to modern workplace expectations. Furthermore, the required financial disclosures will lead to greater transparency among legislators, fostering public confidence in governmental operations.

Summary

SR4, introduced by Senator L. Williams on January 7, 2025, addresses the adoption of Ethical Conduct Rules for the Pennsylvania Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Sessions. The rules establish clear guidelines for acceptable conduct among Senators and Senate employees, with definitions covering various terms related to campaign activities, financial interests, and harassment. Notably, these rules ensure that there are serious consequences for violations, which can include disciplinary action or even termination of employment in serious cases. This reflects an effort to maintain integrity and trust in the legislative process.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment towards SR4 appears positive, especially among proponents who advocate for increased accountability and ethical behavior in government. Supporters believe that these rules are a necessary step towards safeguarding the interests of both Senate employees and constituents. However, there may also be concerns regarding the effects of stringent regulations on the legislative process, with some legislators wary of how these rules might be enforced or perceived in the public eye.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance ethical standards, there are points of contention regarding the defined scope of terms like 'harassment' and the potential for disciplinary actions to be misused. Critics worry that the rules could lead to unjust sanctions against Senators or employees amid political disagreements. The balance between necessary oversight and the freedom to operate effectively in a legislative capacity is a key discussion point among both Senators and advocacy groups.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR1

Adopting Ethical Conduct Rules of the Senate.

PA SR5

Adopting Ethical Conduct Rules of the Senate.

PA HR23

Amending the Operating Rules of the House of Representatives For Special Session No. 1 (2023) On Providing Justice To Otherwise Barred Victims Of Childhood Sexual Abuse, providing for definitions, for ethical conduct, for professional conduct and for Committee on Ethics.

PA HR1

Adopting permanent rules for the House of Representatives.

PA SR3

Adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 207th and 208th Regular Session.

PA SR7

Adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 207th and 208th Regular Session.

PA SR6

Adopting Financial Operating Rules of the Senate.

PA SR2

Adopting Financial Operating Rules of the Senate.

PA HR276

Amending House Rules 1 E, 2.1 E and 3 E, further providing for definitions, for professional conduct and for Committee on Ethics.

PA SB572

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions, for restricted activities, for statement of financial interests and for penalties; in lobbying disclosure, further providing for definitions, for reporting and for penalties; and, in Turnpike Commission standards of conduct, further providing for code of conduct.

Similar Bills

PA SR5

Adopting Ethical Conduct Rules of the Senate.

PA HR23

Amending the Operating Rules of the House of Representatives For Special Session No. 1 (2023) On Providing Justice To Otherwise Barred Victims Of Childhood Sexual Abuse, providing for definitions, for ethical conduct, for professional conduct and for Committee on Ethics.

PA HR1

Adopting permanent rules for the House of Representatives.

KS SB208

House Substitute for SB 208 by Committee on Elections - Amending provisions relating to the governmental ethics commission's authority to investigate and enforce the campaign finance act and limitations on the receipt and expenditure of contributions.

KS HB2391

Substitute for HB 2391 by Committee on Elections - Amending the act establishing the governmental ethics commission, relating to campaign finance, establishing a five-year statute of limitations for bringing actions before the commission, limiting the commission's subpoena power, allowing respondents to transfer a hearing before the commission to a hearing officer under the office of administrative hearings.

OH SCR4

Adopt the Legislative Code of Ethics

PA SR1

Adopting Ethical Conduct Rules of the Senate.

OH SCR4

Adopt the Legislative Code of Ethics