Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB428

Introduced
3/14/23  

Caption

Further providing for definitions and for existing regulations; and establishing the Independent Office of the Repealer and providing for its power and duties.

Impact

If enacted, SB428 would significantly alter the regulatory landscape within Pennsylvania. The Independent Office of the Repealer would be tasked with evaluating current regulations and making recommendations for their modification or repeal based on a defined set of criteria. This could lead to the elimination of several outdated regulations, ultimately making it easier for businesses and citizens to navigate the state's legal environment. Additionally, agencies would be required to repeal at least two existing regulations for every new one introduced, thereby enforcing a more stringent approach to regulatory oversight.

Summary

Senate Bill 428 aims to enhance the regulatory framework of Pennsylvania by establishing the Independent Office of the Repealer. This office is designed to systematically review existing statutes and regulations to identify those that are unnecessary or burdensome. The bill seeks to promote efficiency and eliminate duplicative or outdated regulations, thus streamlining government processes. By implementing these changes, the bill intends to support economic growth and enhance the overall efficacy of state governance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB428 appears mixed but leans towards a positive reception from pro-business advocates and lawmakers who support regulatory reform. Proponents argue that the bill represents a significant step towards reducing governmental red tape and fostering a more business-friendly environment in Pennsylvania. However, critics caution that such measures may lead to unintended consequences, including the removal of important regulatory protections that benefit public welfare and safety. This divide underscores a broader debate about the balance between deregulation and the necessary oversight to protect citizens.

Contention

Notable points of contention among legislators and stakeholders include the potential for the Independent Office of the Repealer to undermine necessary regulations that serve critical public interests. Opponents express concern that an aggressive pursuit of deregulation could strip away vital protections in areas such as environmental safeguards and public health standards. Additionally, the process for appointing the director of the office raises concerns over potential partisan influence, despite claims of nonpartisanship. Thus, the discussions surrounding this bill highlight the tension between enhancing efficiency and maintaining necessary safeguards within state governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB462

Further providing for definitions and for existing regulations; and establishing the Office of Government Efficiency and providing for its power and duties.

PA SB444

Further providing for definitions and for existing regulations.

PA SB151

In Independent Fiscal Office, further providing for definitions and for duties of office and providing for poverty impact analysis.

PA SB810

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; providing for concurrent resolution required for economically significant regulations; further providing for existing regulations; and providing for State agency regulatory compliance officers and for Office of Government Efficiency.

PA HB114

Establishing the Independent Energy Office; and providing for powers and duties of the Independent Energy Office.

PA HB36

In Office of State Inspector General, further providing for definitions and for powers, purpose and duties.

PA HB1755

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in powers and duties, further providing for power of commission to require insurance.

PA SB520

In wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions and repealing provisions relating to public access; in enforcement relating to fish, further providing for powers and duties of waterways conservation officers and deputies; in enforcement relating to game, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; in recordings by law enforcement officers, further providing for definitions and for audio recording or video recording policies; in Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole, further providing for powers and duties of Department of Corrections; and making transfers between the State Gaming Fund and certain restricted accounts.

PA HB2057

Further providing for definitions, for proposed regulations and procedures for review, for final-form regulations and final-omitted regulations and procedures for review, for procedures for subsequent review of disapproved final-form or final-omitted regulations, for existing regulations and for regulations, annual reports, hearings and advisory group meetings.

PA SB24

Establishing the Office of New Americans and providing for its powers and duties; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Americans and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.