Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2165

Introduced

1/28/26

Refer

1/28/26

Caption

In juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

Summary

House Bill 2165 amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically focusing on the definitions related to juvenile matters. The bill seeks to clarify the definition of 'delinquent act' by specifying the types of offenses that fall under this category. It includes acts that are designated as crimes under Pennsylvania law, other state laws, or federal law, as well as certain acts of indirect criminal contempt related to sexual violence. Notably, the bill excludes serious offenses such as murder and certain violent crimes when committed by juveniles under specific circumstances.

Impact

The bill's amendments will have a significant impact on how juvenile offenses are categorized and prosecuted in Pennsylvania. By refining the definition of 'delinquent act,' the legislation aims to ensure that more serious crimes committed by juveniles are treated appropriately within the judicial system. This could lead to stricter consequences for juveniles who commit serious offenses, potentially affecting their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2165 appears to be mixed, with some legislators expressing support for the need to address serious juvenile offenses more rigorously. However, there are concerns about the implications of categorizing certain acts as delinquent, particularly regarding the potential for harsher penalties for young offenders. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions at this stage suggests that the bill is still in the early stages of consideration.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between holding juveniles accountable for serious crimes and the need for rehabilitation. Some advocates argue that the bill may lead to overly punitive measures for young offenders, while supporters contend that it is necessary to protect victims and ensure justice is served. The debate centers on how to effectively address juvenile crime without compromising the principles of juvenile justice.

Latest PA HB2165 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB2165

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB916

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of burglary; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

PA HB1385

In juvenile matters, further providing for definitions and for disposition of delinquent child.

PA HB2203

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for burglary; in robbery, further providing for robbery; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions, for inspection of court files and records, for conduct of hearings and for transfer to criminal proceedings.

PA HB1383

In juvenile matters, further providing for definitions, for scope of chapter, for inspection of court files and records, for transfer from criminal proceedings, for place of detention and for conduct of hearings and repealing provisions relating to transfer to criminal proceedings; and making editorial changes.

PA HB940

In child protective services, further providing for definitions.

PA HB1381

In juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

PA HB1432

In protection from abuse, further providing for definitions.

PA HB1873

In offenses against the family, further providing for the offense of endangering welfare of children; in child protective services, further providing for definitions and for exclusions from child abuse; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

PA SB45

In human trafficking, further providing for definitions, providing for the offense of promoting prostitution, for the offense of living off of prostituted persons and for the offense of patronizing prostitution and further providing for grants; in public indecency, further providing for prostitution and related offenses; establishing the Prevention of Human Trafficking Restricted Account; in child protective services, further providing for definitions; in sentencing, further providing for sexual offenses and tier system; in DNA data and testing, further providing for definitions; in interstate compacts, further providing for supervision of persons paroled by other states; and, in powers and duties relating to the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, further providing for consideration of criminal convictions.

PA HB144

In juvenile matters, further providing for informal adjustment; and making an editorial change.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.