Pennsylvania Legislation
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Bill
Title & Description
LG position
HB 1059
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Expanding Cronyism and Government Central Planning through $2 Billion in Special Interest Subsidies.
The Pennsylvania Economic Development for a Growing Economy (PA EDGE) program provides $1.97 billion in tax credits over the next 25 years to hydrogen producers, milk processors, bio-medical researchers and semi-conductor manufacturers. The bill is designed to incentivize businesses within these industries to move to the state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as as it shifts tax burdens to other individuals and businesses not favored by government, providing select companies with competitive advantages over others. Instead of attempting to centrally plan the economy, lawmakers should utilize the $2 billion to cut taxes across all industries, which will allow the free market to provide far greater job and business growth.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1059
PA House (2022)
2x
Expanding Cronyism and Government Central Planning through $2 Billion in Special Interest Subsidies.
The Pennsylvania Economic Development for a Growing Economy (PA EDGE) program provides $1.97 billion in tax credits over the next 25 years to hydrogen producers, milk processors, bio-medical researchers and semi-conductor manufacturers. The bill is designed to incentivize businesses within these industries to move to the state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as as it shifts tax burdens to other individuals and businesses not favored by government, providing select companies with competitive advantages over others. Instead of attempting to centrally plan the economy, lawmakers should utilize the $2 billion to cut taxes across all industries, which will allow the free market to provide far greater job and business growth.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1342
PA Senate (2022)
3x
Spurring Economic Growth by Gradually Reducing the Corporate Tax Rate from 9.99% to 4.99% by 2031.
This omnibus tax reform package gradually reduces the state's corporate tax rate from 9.99% to 4.99%, starting with 8.99% in 2023 and a 0.5% annual reduction until 2031. The bill also codifies PA tax bulletin 2019-04 into law, which requires online sales tax collections on entities with sales above $500,000 annually. Furthermore, the bill conforms the state to the federal tax code concerning deductions and deferrals in Section 179 and 1031. Support is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the nation, placing the state at a competitive disadvantage in attracting businesses and growing the state economy. Additionally, provisions such as codification of the online sales tax collection helps ensure that all businesses are treated equally under the tax code and that certain companies do not receive competitive advantages over others.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1342
PA House (2022)
3x
Spurring Economic Growth by Gradually Reducing the Corporate Tax Rate from 9.99% to 4.99% by 2031.
This omnibus tax reform package gradually reduces the state's corporate tax rate from 9.99% to 4.99%, starting with 8.99% in 2023 and a 0.5% annual reduction until 2031. The bill also codifies PA tax bulletin 2019-04 into law, which requires online sales tax collections on entities with sales above $500,000 annually. Furthermore, the bill conforms the state to the federal tax code concerning deductions and deferrals in Section 179 and 1031. Support is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the nation, placing the state at a competitive disadvantage in attracting businesses and growing the state economy. Additionally, provisions such as codification of the online sales tax collection helps ensure that all businesses are treated equally under the tax code and that certain companies do not receive competitive advantages over others.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 143 (Kenyatta Amd. 5555)
PA House (2022)
1x
Weakening Election Integrity by Blocking Reforms that Ensure Voter Rolls Remain Updated and that Deceased Individuals are Removed.
The Kenyatta amendment #5555 to a bill pertaining to voter roll maintenance serves as a "gut and go" measure, which eliminates the bill's language and replaces it with much weaker provisions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as updating voter rolls and maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1440
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Healthcare Costs through an Excessive New Occupational Licensing Regime Concerning Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy.
This bill further expands occupational licensure requirements within the healthcare industry to include individuals assisting with medical imaging and radiation therapy. Under existing law, an individual can only perform these services if they are under the direct supervision of a medical doctor and have passed an examination. This bill creates additional requirements, including obtaining a state license, paying an annual fee of $100 or more, completing a course of study, and obtaining certification by an outside organization. Finally, the bill prevents individuals with criminal convictions from receiving a license unless they pass an "individualized assessment". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these new mandates are excessive considering individuals providing medical imaging and radiation therapy already must pass an examination and can only perform such services under the oversight of licensed medical doctors at licensed medical facilities. This bill both drives up healthcare costs and further exacerbates the staffing shortages at hospitals and the ability of patients to receive attentive and timely treatment. Furthermore, imposing greater employment barriers for individuals with criminal convictions harms their economic mobility which increases recidivism and government dependency.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1741 (Keefer Amd. 4343)
PA House (2022)
1x
Strengthening Medical Freedom by Preventing Licensing Boards from Taking Actions Against Doctors for Prescribing Off-Label Drugs to Treat COVID-19.
The Keefer amendment #4343 to the Coronavirus Infection Medication Act provides greater legal clarity to ensure doctors can prescribe off-label drugs, such as hydroxychloroquine sulfate and ivermectin, to treat a COVID-19 infection without facing any disciplinary actions from the state's professional and occupational licensing boards. Support is the Limited Government Position as there have been countless reported cases of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin being effective in treating COVID-19, even though they haven't been approved by the FDA. Additionally, considering the low level of associated risks and side effects of these drugs, patients and their doctors should have the freedom to make their own medical decisions.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1795
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Infringing Private Contracting Rights through Government Overreach into the Governance Practices of Private Homeowners Associations.
This bill establishes a list of new governing requirements for condominiums, cooperatives, and planned communities (commonly referred to as HOAs). The bill establishes certain vote thresholds for changes to HOA bylaws, how election processes are carried out, and the inclusion of "independent reviewers". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to dictate the private contractual agreements and operations of HOAs. HOAs serve as free-market alternatives to government zoning and land use standards, as individuals can choose the restrictiveness of the community they wish to join or select to live on property outside the governance of an HOA.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 1795
PA House (2022)
1x
Infringing Private Contracting Rights through Government Overreach into the Governance Practices of Private Homeowners Associations.
This bill establishes a list of new governing requirements for condominiums, cooperatives, and planned communities (commonly referred to as HOAs). The bill establishes certain vote thresholds for changes to HOA bylaws, how election processes are carried out, and the inclusion of "independent reviewers". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to dictate the private contractual agreements and operations of HOAs. HOAs serve as free-market alternatives to government zoning and land use standards, as individuals can choose the restrictiveness of the community they wish to join or select to live on property outside the governance of an HOA.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 19
PA House (2022)
1x
Restricting Competition and Hiking Consumer Costs by Imposing New Licensing Mandates on Behavior Analysts.
This bill requires anyone who serves as a "behavior analyst" to become licensed by the state to work. This includes anyone who practices "applied behavior analysis" to help a person overcome addiction, depression or an eating disorder, as well as assist a person with ADHD, autism, or Down Syndrome. To obtain a license one must obtain a master's degree, pass examinations and pay fees, meet continuing education requirements, and maintain $1,000,000 in liability insurance. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill is largely designed to enrich entities that offer certification and degrees in applied behavior analysis and protect holders of such degrees from competition. As a result, it becomes much more costly and difficult to find individuals to assist those with Down Syndrome, autism and others who seek these services. Instead of this one-size-fits-all government licensing mandate, lawmakers should allow the free market to provide consumer protection through private certification entities and grant individuals the freedom to choose which behavior analysts they wish to obtain services from based on their level of training and experience.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2039
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Increasing Public Safety by Ensuring Victims of Violent Crime have the Right to Appear at the Bail Hearing of the Defendant.
This bill amends the state's Crime Victims Act to ensure victims of violent crimes are provided notice of the defendant's bail proceedings and are provided the opportunity to appear and offer comment. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and protecting property rights serve as essential components of government. While it is critical all defendants be provided their Fifth Amendment right of "innocent until proven guilty", victims of crime deserve the right to communicate harms they allege throughout the arrest and arraignment process.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2039
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Public Safety by Ensuring Victims of Violent Crime have the Right to Appear at the Bail Hearing of the Defendant.
This bill amends the state's Crime Victims Act to ensure victims of violent crimes are provided notice of the defendant's bail proceedings and are provided the opportunity to appear and offer comment. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and protecting property rights serve as essential components of government. While it is critical all defendants be provided their Fifth Amendment right of "innocent until proven guilty", victims of crime deserve the right to communicate harms they allege throughout the arrest and arraignment process.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2169
PA House (2022)
3x
Improving Educational Outcomes by Expanding School Choice via the Lifeline Scholarship Program.
This bill establishes the "Lifeline Scholarship Program" which serves as a school voucher program for students who reside within a school district ranked in the bottom 15% in performance within the state. Under the program, parents would receive a scholarship of $6,697 to use towards the tuition of a private school. This amount would be deducted from the $19,200 per-student funding that the public school receives, allowing the school to still retain the other roughly two-thirds in funding. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding. Additionally, unlike some school choice initiatives which drive-up taxpayer costs, this measure protects taxpayers and ensures public schools retain a portion of their funding to cover overhead costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2210
PA House (2022)
1x
Infringing Property Rights by Further Worsening the "Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act".
This bill makes "land banks" or entities formed by local governments eligible to serve as "conservators" under the existing Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act. That Act permits properties to be seized if they have been vacant for at least 12 months, in need of substantial repair and considered a public nuisance. Once seized from the property owner, the properties are handed to a "conservator" - and collects a fee based on 20% of their costs - who repairs and sells the rehabilitated properties. After a number of fees, court costs, and conservator costs are collected, the original owner is provided the remaining portion of the proceeds from the sale. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further worsens the Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act, which infringes on property rights and represents a textbook example of government overreach. Instead of growing the number of entities that can seize properties under this Act, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and cutting crime in communities.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2210
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Infringing Property Rights by Further Worsening the "Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act".
This bill makes "land banks" or entities formed by local governments eligible to serve as "conservators" under the existing Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act. That Act permits properties to be seized if they have been vacant for at least 12 months, in need of substantial repair and considered a public nuisance. Once seized from the property owner, the properties are handed to a "conservator" - and collects a fee based on 20% of their costs - who repairs and sells the rehabilitated properties. After a number of fees, court costs, and conservator costs are collected, the original owner is provided the remaining portion of the proceeds from the sale. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further worsens the Abandoned and Blighted Property Conservatorship Act, which infringes on property rights and represents a textbook example of government overreach. Instead of growing the number of entities that can seize properties under this Act, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and cutting crime in communities.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 223
PA House (2022)
1x
Expanding Cronyism by Providing Tax Exemptions to Government-Favored Dairy Processing Facilities.
The "Keystone Opportunity Dairy Zone Act" authorizes government employees within the Department of Community and Economic Development to create "dairy zones" and provide tax exemptions, deductions, and credits to individuals and businesses within the zones for up to 10 years. This measure is expected to cost the commonwealth $15 million annually in lost revenue. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only do policies such as this measure provide competitive advantages to select companies and industries, but shift tax burdens to other individuals and businesses not favored by government. Instead of expanding government central planning, lawmakers should work to quicken the tax cuts in HB 1342 and remove regulatory barriers so the free market can spur investment in the most needed initiatives.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2275
PA House (2022)
2x
Increasing Public Safety by Establishing a Task Force and Providing the State AG the Ability to Prosecute Criminals that Commit Gun Violence in Philadelphia.
This bill extends the Office of the Attorney General's concurrent jurisdiction to prosecute gun crimes in Philadelphia while also creating a new task force to investigate and prosecute the unlawful possession, use and transfer of firearms within the city. The bill is in response to policies enacted by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner that have resulted in minimal prosecution of individuals who have committed gun violence. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and protecting property rights serve as essential components of government. Krasner, who received nearly $1.7 million in campaign support from George Soros during the 2017 election, has demonstrated through countless statistical measurements that he has failed in his duty to protect Philadelphia and surrounding communities.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2398
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Reducing Regulatory Barriers to Autonomous Vehicle Innovation and Increasing Penalties for Catalytic Converter Theft.
This bill establishes a regulatory framework that allows autonomous vehicles to be tested and deployed in the state. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for the theft of catalytic converters, which are emission-control devices that contain valuable metal components. Support is the Limited Government Position as reducing government barriers to autonomous vehicle deployment will help reduce development costs, ultimately helping more quickly bring this innovative and pro-economic growth technology to the marketplace. Additionally, the bill helps strengthen property rights and dissuade crime by ensuring criminal penalties on catalytic converter theft better reflect the significant financial harm suffered by victims.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2398
PA House (2022)
1x
Reducing Regulatory Barriers to Autonomous Vehicle Innovation and Increasing Penalties for Catalytic Converter Theft.
This bill establishes a regulatory framework that allows autonomous vehicles to be tested and deployed in the state. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for the theft of catalytic converters, which are emission-control devices that contain valuable metal components. Support is the Limited Government Position as reducing government barriers to autonomous vehicle deployment will help reduce development costs, ultimately helping more quickly bring this innovative and pro-economic growth technology to the marketplace. Additionally, the bill helps strengthen property rights and dissuade crime by ensuring criminal penalties on catalytic converter theft better reflect the significant financial harm suffered by victims.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2405
PA House (2022)
1x
Reducing Unnecessary Red Tape by Providing Localities the Ability to Bypass State Approval to Maintain Streams in Certain Emergency Situations.
This bill, part of a larger stream maintenance package, authorizes counties, in consultation with their county conservation district, to issue emergency permits for stream maintenance. The bill is based on a successful pilot project in Bradford County and allows counties to perform actions without being hindered by state bureaucracy. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves response by counties to emergency situations by reducing unnecessary red tape and regulatory overreach of the Department of Environmental Protection.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2451
PA House (2022)
2x
Expanding Energy Production by Ending the Delaware River Basin Commission's Authority to Ban Fracking.
This bill amends Pennsylvania's version of the Delaware River Basin Compact to make it clear that it is not within the Delaware River Basin Commission's (DRBC) authority to ban fracking. Support is the Limited Government Position as while there is a role for government to protect the river and surrounding landowners from direct and significant environmental threats, an outright ban on fracking represents an example of significant government overreach. A ban on fracking not only infringes on property rights but subjects Americans to unnecessarily high energy prices.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2458
PA House (2022)
1x
Boosting American Energy Production and International Trade by Establishing a Task Force to Study the Export of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) from the Port of Philadelphia.
This bill establishes a taskforce to study the challenges, economic feasibility, financial impact, and the security requirements involved in turning the Port of Philadelphia into a LNG export terminal. Support is the Limited Government Position as exporting LNG from Philadelphia boosts American energy production and economic growth. It also opens the door for improving international relations and security by making the European market less reliant on Russian energy.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2458
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Boosting American Energy Production and International Trade by Establishing a Task Force to Study the Export of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) from the Port of Philadelphia.
This bill establishes a taskforce to study the challenges, economic feasibility, financial impact, and the security requirements involved in turning the Port of Philadelphia into a LNG export terminal. Support is the Limited Government Position as exporting LNG from Philadelphia boosts American energy production and economic growth. It also opens the door for improving international relations and security by making the European market less reliant on Russian energy.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2461
PA House (2022)
3x
Boosting State Revenue and Energy Production by Authorizing Oil and Gas Extraction Under State Lands.
This bill authorizes the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DNCR) to lease subsurface rights under state lands. As a result, companies would be able to pay the state to extract the oil and gas beneath state lands as long as their drilling originated from a wellsite that was not on state property. The revenue that is generated from the leases would be utilized to fund stream maintenance, clearing projects, and flood mitigation. Support is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure boost domestic energy production which, grows the nation's economy, but also protects the environment and benefits Pennsylvania taxpayers through increased state revenue.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2644
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Strengthening Government Accountability by Providing Legislative Oversight of Bonding Requirements for Orphaned Gas and Oil Well Plugging.
This bill directs federal infrastructure funds to the Department of Environmental Quality to plug abandoned oil and gas wells. Additionally, the bill reforms bonding requirements (ranging from $2,500 to $100,000) to provide environmental protection while also ensuring companies are not hit with excessive bonding costs. The bill also authorizes the state legislature, not the Environmental Quality Board, to be the authority to adjust bonding requirements over the next decade. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps better balance environmental protection with the need to maintain a business-friendly environment for oil and gas extraction. Furthermore, the bill strengthens government accountability by ensuring the legislature, which is accountable to voters, sets bonding levels as opposed to the Environmental Quality Board which is not held to this same level of oversight.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 2644
PA House (2022)
1x
Strengthening Government Accountability by Providing Legislative Oversight of Bonding Requirements for Orphaned Gas and Oil Well Plugging.
This bill directs federal infrastructure funds to the Department of Environmental Quality to plug abandoned oil and gas wells. Additionally, the bill reforms bonding requirements (ranging from $2,500 to $100,000) to provide environmental protection while also ensuring companies are not hit with excessive bonding costs. The bill also authorizes the state legislature, not the Environmental Quality Board, to be the authority to adjust bonding requirements over the next decade. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps better balance environmental protection with the need to maintain a business-friendly environment for oil and gas extraction. Furthermore, the bill strengthens government accountability by ensuring the legislature, which is accountable to voters, sets bonding levels as opposed to the Environmental Quality Board which is not held to this same level of oversight.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 285
PA House (2022)
1x
Reducing Barriers for the Sale of Businesses to Employees by Aligning PA Tax Code with the Rest of the Nation.
This bill eliminates a tax barrier, one that only a handful of states imposed, which will encourage family-owned businesses to sell their companies to their employees as opposed to outside entities. Specifically, the bill relates to Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and allows sellers of C corporations to defer 100% of capital gains tax when selling to their employees in an ESOP, if the funds are reinvested in certain securities. As a result, the state tax code will mirror federal Section 1042 rules. Support is the Limited Government Position as this pro-growth measure will benefit all family-owned businesses and help spur entrepreneurship, while providing greater stability and certainty to company employees.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 333
PA House (2022)
2x
Reducing Tax Burdens on Small Businesses by Aligning the State Section 179 Deduction with the Federal Tax Code.
This bill, part of the Small Business Tax Fairness Package, helps provide tax relief to passthroughs (LLCs and S-corps) by aligning the state section 179 deduction with the federal tax code. As a result, small businesses (just like corporations) can take advantage of the full $1.08 million expense deduction as opposed to the state's $25,000 cap on passthroughs. Support is the Limited Government Position as this pro-growth measure will incentivize all business sectors to increase investment and will allow a greater amount of resources to remain in the private sector where they can be re-invested and grow the economy.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 398
PA House (2022)
1x
Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Abuse by Requiring a Child to be Enrolled on the Health Plan of their Non-Custodial Parent as Opposed to Medicaid.
This bill establishes a new condition for Medicaid eligibility (state-provided healthcare), which ensures a child is only enrolled into the program if their non-custodial parent does not have healthcare, otherwise they would be required to be enrolled on their non-custodial parent's plan as opposed to Medicaid. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill decreases government dependency and ensures that the state's Medicaid system serves only as the payer of last resort for healthcare. As a result, taxpayer funds are protected from abuse, and a greater amount of accountability is placed on parents.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 581
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Property Tax Burdens by Authorizing Local Exemptions for "Affordable Housing".
The "Affordable Housing Unit Tax Exemption Act" authorizes local governments to provide property tax exemptions for both single-family and multi-family housing units that are occupied by individuals whose income does not exceed 60% of the median income within its area. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure further enrich developers of "affordable housing" who receive hefty payouts under the state and federal low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) program, but this bill further drives up property tax burdens for all other homeowners who must now subsidize the amenities and lost revenue from these properties. Instead, lawmakers should allow the free-market to reduce housing costs by eliminating zoning and regulatory barriers that prohibit housing development.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 581
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Increasing Property Tax Burdens by Authorizing Local Exemptions for "Affordable Housing".
The "Affordable Housing Unit Tax Exemption Act" authorizes local governments to provide property tax exemptions for both single-family and multi-family housing units that are occupied by individuals whose income does not exceed 60% of the median income within its area. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure further enrich developers of "affordable housing" who receive hefty payouts under the state and federal low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) program, but this bill further drives up property tax burdens for all other homeowners who must now subsidize the amenities and lost revenue from these properties. Instead, lawmakers should allow the free-market to reduce housing costs by eliminating zoning and regulatory barriers that prohibit housing development.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 604
PA House (2022)
1x
Improving the State's Business Climate by Establishing a 45 Day Window on DEP Permit Applications.
This bill places a 45-day window on permit application decisions by the state's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in order to provide a predictable framework and improve the business climate of the state. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves the state's business climate by providing greater regulatory certainty and reducing delays that unnecessarily drive-up business costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 637
PA House (2022)
3x
Preventing Energy Costs from Skyrocketing by Ensuring the State does not Enter into the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
This bill prohibits the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) from regulating carbon dioxide emissions without the approval of the legislature. As a result, the bill blocks an executive order by the Wolf Administration which enters Pennsylvania into the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which serves as a carbon tax. The bill instead serves as a compromise, providing $250 million for carbon capture, abandoned well plugging and transition for coal communities. Support is the Limited Government Position as while a large portion of the bill's spending may be unnecessary, this "compromise" is certainly better than the state entering into the RGGI that is expected to increase state energy costs by billions of dollars while harming the competitiveness of the state's manufacturing sector.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 71
PA House (2022)
3x
Protecting Taxpayers through a Constitutional Amendment Limiting State Spending to Only Growth in Population and Inflation.
This motion by Rep. Bernstine advances the "Taxpayer Protection Act", which amends the State Constitution to limit the amount the Commonwealth's spending may increase. The crease will be based on a three-year average of the Commonwealth's inflation and population growth. The cap may only be exceeded by a 2/3 vote of both chambers of the General Assembly. Support is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HB 746
PA House (2022)
1x
Strengthening Government Integrity by Prohibiting Assignment of State-Owned Vehicles to Members of the Legislature.
This bill prohibits elected officials within the General Assembly from being assigned state-owned vehicles or using state funds to lease a vehicle except for emergency situations. Currently roughly 20 Representatives utilize state-leased cars under a program which authorizes leases of up to $650 a month. And while lawmakers must reimburse the state for the percentage of the vehicle lease that is not utilized for official business, the program has a history of abuse, including a lawmaker who crashed their car multiple times and even fled the scene of an accident. Support is the Limited Government Position as 90% of lawmakers utilize their own vehicles and receive mileage reimbursements and this program is an unnecessary cost for taxpayers to maintain.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HCRRR 1
PA House (2022)
2x
Blocking Implementation of Excessive Charter School Regulations Imposed by the Wolf Administration.
This resolution blocks the implementation of new charter school regulations imposed by the Wolf Administration. Specifically, the measure disapproves Department of Education Regulations (#6-349), which sets a series of regulations and requirements charter schools and cyber charter schools must abide by. Such regulations and requirements including providing comparable health benefits to employees that public schools provide, meeting new disclosure requirements when applying for establishment, posting non-discrimination and student selection policies on their websites, among other new rules. Support is the Limited Government Position as while all charter schools, which receive taxpayer funds, should be subject to oversight to ensure accountability, these onerous regulations are primarily designed to serve as barriers to charter school establishment and protect public schools from competition, reducing the quality of the state's education system.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HCRRR 1
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Blocking Implementation of Excessive Charter School Regulations Imposed by the Wolf Administration.
This resolution blocks the implementation of new charter school regulations imposed by the Wolf Administration. Specifically, the measure disapproves Department of Education Regulations (#6-349), which sets a series of regulations and requirements charter schools and cyber charter schools must abide by. Such regulations and requirements including providing comparable health benefits to employees that public schools provide, meeting new disclosure requirements when applying for establishment, posting non-discrimination and student selection policies on their websites, among other new rules. Support is the Limited Government Position as while all charter schools, which receive taxpayer funds, should be subject to oversight to ensure accountability, these onerous regulations are primarily designed to serve as barriers to charter school establishment and protect public schools from competition, reducing the quality of the state's education system.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HR 187
PA House (2022)
1x
Promoting American Energy Dominance by Urging the Governors of New York and New Jersey to Authorize Natural Gas Pipeline Construction
This resolution titled "Ending Pro-Putin Pipeline Bans" urges New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Governor Philip Murphy to end their states' policies banning the construction of any new natural gas pipelines. The resolution states these policies have "walled off Pennsylvania natural gas from accessing markets in New England. As a result, New England states often must rely on Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) imports from foreign nations, including Russia." Support is the Limited Government Position as all states should work together to grow the U.S. economy by unleashing American energy dominance, especially through the elimination of all unnecessary regulations that hinder development and energy extraction.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HR 190
PA House (2022)
1x
Reducing Unnecessary Regulations by Calling Congress to Reform Vehicle Emission Testing Mandates.
This resolution calls on Congress to eliminate or reform emission testing regulations. The resolution is in response to federal clean air goals which has resulted in 25 counties across the state maintaining vehicle emission testing programs since 1995. Support is the Limited Government Position as significant advances in vehicular emissions technology and an increase in hybrid and electric vehicles makes emission testing for automobiles unnecessary. Testing mandates burden motorists with an added financial cost. Such regulations are especially problematic for car collectors that own multiple vehicles, due to the amount of time they waste testing, the miles that are added to their vehicles, and the increased risk for vehicle damage.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HR 228
PA House (2022)
1x
Directing the JSGC to Conduct an Unnecessary Study that is Primarily Designed to Justify Growing Government Dependency.
This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission (JSGC) to conduct a study of all changes within the past 5 years to statutes and regulations under the titles 23 and 67 of the Human Services Code (Domestic Relations and Public Welfare). The JSGC is required to report whether any measures have "exacerbated trauma in children and families" and make recommendations on the drafting of statutes and regulations to "mitigate trauma". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does requiring the JSGC to conduct this study drive-up taxpayer costs and restrict the team from performing other research initiatives, but there are already non-profits within the private sector that provide such analyses. Furthermore, this measure is primarily designed to expand government dependency as recommendations to "mitigate trauma" nearly always involve growing the size and scope of government and increasing government dependency.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
HR 240
PA House (2022)
2x
Strengthening Public Safety and Property Rights through the Impeachment of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner for Failing to Prosecute Crime.
This resolution brings 6 articles of impeachment against Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, finding him "derelict in his obligations to the victims of crime, the people of the City of Philadelphia and of this Commonwealth and has failed to uphold his oath of office." Supporters of impeachment cite Krasner's prosecution record, which includes a 90% reduction in retail theft prosecutions and Krasner's office only achieving a 14% conviction rate on the cases that were prosecuted. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety serve as essential components of government. Krasner, who received nearly $1.7 million in campaign support from George Soros during the 2017 election, has demonstrated through countless statistical measurements that he has failed in his duty to protect Philadelphia and surrounding communities.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1030
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Suspending State Adoption of Excessive California Emission and Warranty Standards for Diesel Truck Engines that Place Enormous Costs on Taxpayers and Businesses.
This bill ends Pennsylvania's adoption of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2022 Engine Requirements for diesel emissions and warranty periods. The bill is largely in response to a warranty coverage provision that has led to significant increases in engine prices. Support is the Limited Government Position as the excessive regulations established by CARB will result in individuals, businesses, and taxpayers unnecessarily spending several thousands of dollars to purchase and title new trucks due to warranty coverage mandates that have no impact on environmental protection.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 106
PA House (2022)
3x
Amending the Constitution to Strengthen Election Integrity through Voter ID and Audits, Prohibit Taxpayer-Funded Abortion and Disapprove Regulations without a Gubernatorial Override.
This bill represents a five-part Constitutional amendment package. Firstly, the package prohibits taxpayer funding of abortion and declares the state does not guarantee a "right to an abortion". Secondly, the package implements voter-id requirements and an audit system for elections. Thirdly, the bill allows gubernatorial candidates to select their Lt. Governor as a running mate rather than selecting him or her through a separate election. Finally, it allows lawmakers to disapprove regulations without facing a gubernatorial veto. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to guarantee abortion and force payment from taxpayers (many of whom may have strong religious objections). Furthermore, voter-id requirements and election auditing to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 106
PA Senate (2022)
3x
Amending the Constitution to Strengthen Election Integrity through Voter ID and Audits, Prohibit Taxpayer-Funded Abortion and Disapprove Regulations without a Gubernatorial Override.
This bill represents a five-part Constitutional amendment package. Firstly, the package prohibits taxpayer funding of abortion and declares the state does not guarantee a "right to an abortion". Secondly, the package implements voter-id requirements and an audit system for elections. Thirdly, the bill allows gubernatorial candidates to select their Lt. Governor as a running mate rather than selecting him or her through a separate election. Finally, it allows lawmakers to disapprove regulations without facing a gubernatorial veto. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to guarantee abortion and force payment from taxpayers (many of whom may have strong religious objections). Furthermore, voter-id requirements and election auditing to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1083 (Mullery Amd. 5793)
PA House (2022)
2x
Imposing Greater Tax Burdens on Businesses by Increasing Unemployment Benefit Payouts.
The Mullery amendment #5793 to a bill pertaining to the state's unemployment compensation law results in higher unemployment benefit payouts through the elimination of an automatic trigger that will occur in 2026. Unemployment benefits are funded through a payroll tax imposed on all businesses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as increasing unemployment benefit payouts will inevitably lead to higher business payroll taxes, which, when coupled with other factors, may have an impact on company hiring and employee compensation decisions. Unemployment insurance should not be mandated and carried out by government to oversee, but rather an option for individuals and companies to purchase through the private marketplace.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1083 (Williams Amd. 3934)
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Abusing the Unemployment Insurance System by Providing Payouts to Workers on Strike.
The Williams amendment #3934 to a bill pertaining to the state's unemployment compensation law expands eligibility for unemployment benefits to workers who are on strike for more than 30 days due to a labor dispute. Unemployment benefits are funded through a payroll tax imposed on all businesses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as increasing unemployment benefit payouts will inevitably lead to higher business payroll taxes, which coupled with other factors, may have an impact on company hiring and employee compensation decisions. Additionally, this measure provides union leaders a significant unfair advantage in labor dispute negotiations: workers on strike will now maintain a significant portion of their earnings. Measures such as this highlight the importance of "Right to Work" legislation, which protects the ability of individuals to work without joining a labor union.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1094 (Muth Amd. 4699)
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Advancing Over-Regulation within the Transporation Sector by Stacking the Membership of the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee.
The Muth amendment #4699 to a bill pertaining to the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC) expands the size of the committee from 23 to 27 members. Two of the new members must be from organized labor, one new member from an alternative-powered commercial vehicle manufacture, and one new member representing the Hazardous Materials Response Team. The MCSAC recommends, assesses and evaluates regulations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure to stack the membership of the MCSAC with individuals representing interests that have a history of largely being anti-limited government in their beliefs and policy advocacy will inevitably lead to greater regulation and higher taxpayer and consumer costs within the transportation sector.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1100
PA House (2022)
2x
Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through a Budget with a 11% Spending Hike and Countless New and Increased Social Programs.
This bill implements a $45.3 billion general fund budget for fiscal year 2022-2023, which, when including federal American Rescue Plan funds, represents a spending increase of roughly 11%. The bill contains significant spending increases on social programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Low-Income Property Tax and Rent Rebate (PTTR) Program, a new Whole Home Repair Program, and over $250 million for additional affordable housing. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1100
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending through a Budget with a 11% Spending Hike and Countless New and Increased Social Programs.
This bill implements a $45.3 billion general fund budget for fiscal year 2022-2023, which, when including federal American Rescue Plan funds, represents a spending increase of roughly 11%. The bill contains significant spending increases on social programs such as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Low-Income Property Tax and Rent Rebate (PTTR) Program, a new Whole Home Repair Program, and over $250 million for additional affordable housing. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1124
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Fraud by Requiring the DHS to monthly Cross-Check Death Certificates with the List of Recipients for SNAP Welfare Benefits.
This bill requires the Department of Human Services (DHS) to perform monthly checks on death certificates with the Department of Health's Bureau of Vital Statistics against its recipients of Medical Assistance and SNAP benefits. The bill is in response to an audit conducted by the Auditor General, who found 2,324 deceased individuals were still receiving benefits, including cases of other individuals getting ahold of the benefits for their personal uses. Support is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer resources should be protected from waste fraud and abuse. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to curb abuse, especially considering the fact over $70 million in Pennsylvania welfare EBT card benefits are used outside of the state each year.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1171
PA House (2022)
1x
Protecting Automotive Enthusiasts from Regulatory Overreach by Clarifying the Trailering of Vehicles to Events is not "Commercial Activity".
This bill exempts automotive enthusiasts that trailer their vehicles to motorsports events from laws and regulations concerning "commercial activity". Additionally, the bill authorizes commercial vehicle owners to place additional axles on their trucks to better disperse weight, while still requiring them to comply with weight limits. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens placed on motorsports enthusiasts while also curbing illegal street racing by making it easier and less costly to transport vehicles to the race track. Additionally, allowing additional axles to be placed on trucks benefits taxpayers by allowing weight to be better dispersed which reduces wear and tear placed on roadways.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1171
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Protecting Automotive Enthusiasts from Regulatory Overreach by Clarifying the Trailering of Vehicles to Events is not "Commercial Activity".
This bill exempts automotive enthusiasts that trailer their vehicles to motorsports events from laws and regulations concerning "commercial activity". Additionally, the bill authorizes commercial vehicle owners to place additional axles on their trucks to better disperse weight, while still requiring them to comply with weight limits. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens placed on motorsports enthusiasts while also curbing illegal street racing by making it easier and less costly to transport vehicles to the race track. Additionally, allowing additional axles to be placed on trucks benefits taxpayers by allowing weight to be better dispersed which reduces wear and tear placed on roadways.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1183
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Weakening Property Rights through the Seizure and Destruction of ATVs and Dirt Bikes if Unlawfully Operated on Roadways.
This bill authorizes urban municipalities to seize any ATV or dirt bike that is operated unlawfully on public roadways or areas. The property is subject to forfeiture and upon a conviction is to be sold or destroyed. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as one of the foundational principles of our nation's Constitution is strong property rights. While government has a duty to uphold the rule of law to ensure societal safety and order, which it can do by increasing fines and imprisonment for vehicular violations, this measure weakens property rights while creating moral hazards, such as "policing for profit".
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1183
PA House (2022)
1x
Weakening Property Rights through the Seizure and Destruction of ATVs and Dirt Bikes if Unlawfully Operated on Roadways.
This bill authorizes urban municipalities to seize any ATV or dirt bike that is operated unlawfully on public roadways or areas. The property is subject to forfeiture and upon a conviction is to be sold or destroyed. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as one of the foundational principles of our nation's Constitution is strong property rights. While government has a duty to uphold the rule of law to ensure societal safety and order, which it can do by increasing fines and imprisonment for vehicular violations, this measure weakens property rights while creating moral hazards, such as "policing for profit".
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1188
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Increasing Health Insurance Premiums by Mandating All Policies Provide Coverage for Lyme Testing and Treatment.
This bill, the "Lyme Disease and Related Tick-Borne Illness Diagnosis and Treatment Act" requires all health insurance policies offered in the state to provide coverage for all diagnostic testing and prescribed treatment of Lyme disease. The bill also requires the state Department of Health to distribute culturally and linguistic appropriate literature about Lyme disease to healthcare providers and the general public at no cost. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents an individuals ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals choosing to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 119 (Herrin Amd. 3817)
PA House (2022)
2x
Advancing Run-Away Spending by Directing $750 Million of Federal COVID-19 Funds to Environmental Projects Subject to Prevailing Wage Mandates.
The Herrin amendment #3817 to a bill requiring legislative approval to enter the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) represents a miniature "green new deal" by utilizing $750 million in federal COVID-19 funds for various environmental initiatives and projects, while requiring worker apprenticeships and adherence to state prevailing wage mandates. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only are these public works projects unneeded but subjecting these initiatives to the prevailing wage (a depression-era law which requires payment of above-market wages) unnecessarily drives up taxpayer costs. Furthermore, Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1200
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Strengthening Election Integrity by Requiring Mail-in Ballots be Returned via Mail or In-Person Instead of Unsecured and Politicized Drop Boxes.
This bill amends election law by requiring all mail-in ballots be returned through the mail or in-person at election offices as opposed to "drop boxes". Support is the Limited Government Position as this reform strengthens election integrity and helps reduce politicalization within the election process. Select placement of drop boxes and their distribution density can provide advantages to some candidates over others. Additionally, unsecured ballot boxes can create avenues for "ballot misplacement" and "ballot harvesting", which undermine the integrity of our nation's electoral process.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1222
PA House (2022)
1x
Protecting Domestic Insurance Companies with Operations in Europe from Costly and Excessive International Regulations.
This bill amends Pennsylvania's laws governing insurance to comply with two covered agreements between the United States and the European Union and United Kingdom concerning domestic companies operating in the EU and UK. If Pennsylvania does not adopt this amendment, domestic companies with operations in the EU and UK will be required to comply with stricter regulations and accounting standards. Support is the Limited Government Position as the state (along with the federal government) should work to protect all domestic companies from regulatory overreach by foreign governments which harms business competitiveness and profitability.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1222
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Protecting Domestic Insurance Companies with Operations in Europe from Costly and Excessive International Regulations.
This bill amends Pennsylvania's laws governing insurance to comply with two covered agreements between the United States and the European Union and United Kingdom concerning domestic companies operating in the EU and UK. If Pennsylvania does not adopt this amendment, domestic companies with operations in the EU and UK will be required to comply with stricter regulations and accounting standards. Support is the Limited Government Position as the state (along with the federal government) should work to protect all domestic companies from regulatory overreach by foreign governments which harms business competitiveness and profitability.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1277
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Strengthening Parental Rights by Requiring that Public Schools Provide Notification of Sexually Explicit Content Given to Students.
This bill requires public schools to identify sexually explicit content in school curriculum, materials, and books and notify parents that their child's coursework includes such content or that a book their child wishes to view in the school library contains explicit content. "Support" is the Limited Government Position as strong parental rights and individual liberties are critical to a free society. Parents, not government employees, should be the ones to make decisions over the types and degree of sensitive material that their child views.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1284
PA House (2022)
1x
Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Providing 4 Non-State-Owned Universities with Nearly $600 Million in Taxpayer Funds.
This bill appropriates nearly $600 million to four "state-related" universities: Penn State University, Temple University, Lincoln University and University of Pittsburgh. Officials estimate these funds help lower tuition rates by $15,000 per year and are in addition to other subsidies these institutions receive from the federal government and private foundations. The $155 million given to the University of Pittsburg received controversy due to its research program which utilizes fetal tissue from abortions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. Furthermore, Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1284
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Providing 4 Non-State-Owned Universities with Nearly $600 Million in Taxpayer Funds.
This bill appropriates nearly $600 million to four "state-related" universities: Penn State University, Temple University, Lincoln University and University of Pittsburgh. Officials estimate these funds help lower tuition rates by $15,000 per year and are in addition to other subsidies these institutions receive from the federal government and private foundations. The $155 million given to the University of Pittsburg received controversy due to its research program which utilizes fetal tissue from abortions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. Furthermore, Pennsylvania's state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending, as, when coupled with the over $185 trillion federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1287
PA House (2022)
1x
Reducing Overreaching Regulations Placed on Salon Establishments
This bill amends the state's cosmetology regulations by reducing the minimum amount of floor space that is required for each licensee working within a salon space from 180 to 120 square feet. Additionally, the bill creates a new temporary license to allow individuals to start working in a salon, as it can take between 3 to 6 months for a salon inspection to occur. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a step in the right direction to improve the states' heavily overregulated cosmetology industry. However, far greater reforms must be made to cut, and preferably eliminate, occupational licensing mandates placed on cosmetologists and salon establishments to help expand employment opportunities and reduce consumer costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1287
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Reducing Overreaching Regulations Placed on Salon Establishments
This bill amends the state's cosmetology regulations by reducing the minimum amount of floor space that is required for each licensee working within a salon space from 180 to 120 square feet. Additionally, the bill creates a new temporary license to allow individuals to start working in a salon, as it can take between 3 to 6 months for a salon inspection to occur. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a step in the right direction to improve the states' heavily overregulated cosmetology industry. However, far greater reforms must be made to cut, and preferably eliminate, occupational licensing mandates placed on cosmetologists and salon establishments to help expand employment opportunities and reduce consumer costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 1330
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Establishing Additional Health Insurance Mandates Regarding Genetic Testing, which will Drive Up Rates and Make Healthcare Even Less Affordable.
This bill establishes additional coverage mandates regarding genetic testing for hereditary cancers that all public and private health insurers must include in all policy offerings. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from having the ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals choosing to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 134
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Authorizing Seizures of Firearms without Due Process through "Extreme Risk Protection Orders".
This procedural motion by Sen. Costa attempts to discharge (advance) a bill relating to "extreme risk protection orders" from the judiciary committee. The bill creates a "red flag" program whereby any individual may seek to have a firearm immediately taken away from another person through an "ex-parte" (one-sided) petition to a court if the individual alleges the firearms owner is a danger to themselves or others. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the one-sided petition violates due process under the law (an individual can't provide their defense) and this program lacks provisions that prevent nefarious individuals from abusing the system to harass or harm law-abiding individuals, thus unduly infringing their Second Amendment protections and leaving them defenseless.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 153
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Taxpayer Infrastructure Costs by Creating a Special Weight Exemption for Electric-Powered Trucks.
This bill creates a special weight limit exemption for commercial vehicles that are powered by electric batteries. Specifically, the bill allows these vehicles to exceed the maximum allowable gross weight by 2,000 pounds more than diesel or gas-powered trucks (80,000 pounds). Federal and state governments implement weight limits as the vast majority of roadway wear and tear is caused by heavy vehicles. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while there are multiple pros and cons to selecting an electric vehicle over a petrol-powered vehicle, this measure's favoring of electric trucks ultimately subjects taxpayers to higher infrastructure costs.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 275
PA House (2022)
2x
Protecting Consumer Choice by Prohibiting Local Governments from Imposing All-Electric Building Codes and Anti-Natural Gas Ordinances.
This bill prohibits local governments across the state from imposing any ordinances which restrict the ability of consumers to access the energy source of their choice, including natural gas, solar, wind, and geothermal. As a result, the bill would preempt bans on natural gas hook-up and all-electric building codes. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens both property rights and individual liberties. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 349 (Boyle Amd. 4028)
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Taxation by Preventing the Section 179 Business Deduction from Being Indexed to Inflation.
The Boyle amendment #4028 to the small business tax reform package increases tax burdens on businesses by preventing the Section 179 deduction from being indexed to inflation, as is the case at the federal level. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this tax deduction utilized by countless small businesses will continue to shrink over the years due to inflation. As a result, more cash will be transferred to the government and companies will have less resources to invest and grow the economy.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 488
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Strengthening Government Transparency by Requiring Salary Disclosures at State-Related Universities.
This bill expands the "Right-to-Know" law to require disclosure of the top 175 salaries at four of the largest state-related universities: Penn State University, University of Pittsburgh, Temple University and Lincoln University. Earlier this year these four institutions received $600 million in taxpayer funds through SB 1284. Support is the Limited Government Position as while these institutions, which are not state-owned and should likely not be receiving taxpayer funds in the first place, the usage of these funds should at the very least be transparent to taxpayers. These institutions, like many across the nation, have countless wasteful administrative positions that are paid exorbitant salaries. The state must pursue every available avenue to reign in its out-of-control spending and this transparency mechanism at least serves as a step in the right direction.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 573
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Increasing Election Integrity and Transparency through the Poll Watcher Empowerment Act
The "Poll Watcher Empowerment Act" permits all eligible registered voters of Pennsylvania to enlist as a poll watcher in any precinct and levies penalties against election officials who prohibit poll watchers from performing their official duties. Previously, poll watchers had to be a resident of the precinct they were appointed to. Support is the Limited Government Position as poll watchers play a critical role in maintaining election integrity and transparency, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic. Due to the fact a vote cast in any of the state's precincts has an impact on the outcome of a state-wide election, every precinct must be properly staffed with competent poll watchers, regardless of where the poll watchers reside.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 573
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Election Integrity and Transparency through the Poll Watcher Empowerment Act
The "Poll Watcher Empowerment Act" permits all eligible registered voters of Pennsylvania to enlist as a poll watcher in any precinct and levies penalties against election officials who prohibit poll watchers from performing their official duties. Previously, poll watchers had to be a resident of the precinct they were appointed to. Support is the Limited Government Position as poll watchers play a critical role in maintaining election integrity and transparency, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic. Due to the fact a vote cast in any of the state's precincts has an impact on the outcome of a state-wide election, every precinct must be properly staffed with competent poll watchers, regardless of where the poll watchers reside.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 617
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Imposing Additional Mandates on the Private Sector Concerning Protected Employee Leave.
This bill expands regulations under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to require that employers provide up to six weeks of unpaid protective leave for an individual to tend to terminally ill grandparents and grandchildren. This expanded application of the FMLA includes all of the same protections and rights and is expected to require hiring ten investigators within the Department of Labor and Industry to investigate employee complaints for denied leave. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as employers are already incentivized to provide accommodations to retain their employees and this further government overreach into the private sector unnecessarily exposes employers to new avenues of frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs' attorneys.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 635
PA House (2022)
1x
Placing Taxpayer Funds at Risk by Further Expanding the Commercial Property-Assessed Clean Energy Program (C-PACE).
This bill expands the Pennsylvania Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (C-PACE) to include indoor air quality projects and resiliency improvement projects, such as flood mitigation and energy storage. Under the C-PACE program localities may issue bonds (debt) to finance these new initiatives and clean energy projects of commercial property owners, which are then repaid through an additional assessment on their property. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only is it not the proper role of government to compete in the lending industry, but taxpayer funds are unnecessarily placed at risk in the event of a default. Furthermore, the C-PACE program creates additional complications in the mortgage industry concerning lien priority and debt recovery.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 736
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Reforming Regulations to Reduce Unnecessary Burdens Placed on Farmers and Fueling Stations.
This bill expands the definition of "farm vehicle" to include passenger vehicles if, like trucks and truck tractors, they are solely used for local agricultural deliveries. As a result, farmers will have lower insurance costs and not have to obtain yearly safety inspections for the vehicles. Additionally, the bill reforms regulations at fueling stations to allow greater flexibility in where emergency shut-off devices must be located. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure not only provides regulatory and financial relief to farmers, but it also benefits motorists by reducing the number of slow and heavy vehicles traversing roadways. Additionally, providing greater regulatory flexibility at fuel stations helps improve design layouts and unnecessary costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 736
PA House (2022)
1x
Reforming Regulations to Reduce Unnecessary Burdens Placed on Farmers and Fueling Stations.
This bill expands the definition of "farm vehicle" to include passenger vehicles if, like trucks and truck tractors, they are solely used for local agricultural deliveries. As a result, farmers will have lower insurance costs and not have to obtain yearly safety inspections for the vehicles. Additionally, the bill reforms regulations at fueling stations to allow greater flexibility in where emergency shut-off devices must be located. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure not only provides regulatory and financial relief to farmers, but it also benefits motorists by reducing the number of slow and heavy vehicles traversing roadways. Additionally, providing greater regulatory flexibility at fuel stations helps improve design layouts and unnecessary costs.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 786
PA House (2022)
1x
Improving Educational Outcomes by Expanding the "Open Campus Initiative" to Include Charter Schools.
This bill broadens the state's "Open Campus Initiative" (OCI) to include charter schools, regional charter schools, and cyber charter schools. Under the OCI, school districts can enter into collaborative partnerships which allow students from one district to take a class at a school in another district and receive credit for the course. As a result, schools have the ability to offer more specialized classes and students can take courses which best align with their career paths. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes and fosters school choice by providing charter school students with the same benefits as public school students. Additionally, by including charter schools in the initiative, students at public schools also benefit through an expanded competitive market, which provides them a greater number of course options.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 88
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Imposing New Costs and Delays in Exercising 2nd Amendment Rights by Subjecting an Even Greater Range of Private Firearm Sales to Background Checks.
This procedural motion by Sen. Costa attempts to discharge (advance) a bill relating to firearm background checks from the judiciary committee. The bill expands the types of firearms sold through private-sale that are subject to background checks. Specifically, a number of long-barrel firearms, including semi-automatic rifles, are now subject to the checks. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure places a new cost and burden on purchasing a firearm, which countless studies have found does nothing to deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 932 (Longietti Amd. 4330)
PA House (2022)
1x
Attacking School Choice by Subjecting Scholarship Granting Organizations to Abuse through Open Record Requests
The Longietti amendment #4330, to a bill concerning the Educational Improvement Tax Credit and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit programs, authorizes employees within the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to make document requests to scholarship granting organizations that distribute tax credits that fund school choice vouchers. The amendment does not contain any limitations on the type of requests that may be made. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while scholarship granting organizations should be subject to strong oversight since they are awarding taxpayer funds, this open-ended measure is primarily designed to serve as a tool by anti-school choice advocates to harass these entities and subject them to costly and time-consuming reporting.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 933 (Longietti Amd. 4207)
PA House (2022)
1x
Hiking Taxpayer Costs by Providing Unions Two Seats on the State's Board of Higher Education.
The Longietti amendment #4207, to a bill concerning proxy voting for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) Board of Governors, provides unions two seats on the board. Under the amendment, one seat is assigned to the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, and the other seat assigned to the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment creates a direct conflict of interest considering the Board of Governors is assigned with approving union contracts. As a result, unions will have greater negotiating power, which will ultimately result in higher costs for taxpayers.
Against
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 982
PA Senate (2022)
1x
Increasing Election Integrity by Prohibiting Private Funds for Election Administration
This bill prohibits outside groups from funding the administration of election operations. The bill is in response to the hundreds of millions outside groups spent in 2020 for election administration, including $10 million for the administration of election operations in Philadelphia. Support is the Limited Government Position as privately funding election operations introduces serious concerns over their integrity and fairness of election outcomes, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SB 982
PA House (2022)
1x
Increasing Election Integrity by Prohibiting Private Funds for Election Administration
This bill prohibits outside groups from funding the administration of election operations. The bill is in response to the hundreds of millions outside groups spent in 2020 for election administration, including $10 million for the administration of election operations in Philadelphia. Support is the Limited Government Position as privately funding election operations introduces serious concerns over their integrity and fairness of election outcomes, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SCRRR No. 1
PA Senate (2022)
3x
Preventing Energy Costs from Skyrocketing by Withdrawing from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
This motion overrides the Governor's veto of a resolution which prevents the Commonwealth from joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). The motion is in response to actions taken by the legislature to block an executive order by the Wolf Administration, which entered the Commonwealth into the RGGI without the approval of the legislature. The RGGI serves as a carbon tax imposed on electricity producers that is estimated to collect $781 million annually. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as implementation of this cap and trade system under the RGGI unnecessarily increases consumer electricity costs by 30% while significantly harming the competitiveness of the state's manufacturing sector.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government
SR 388
PA Senate (2022)
2x
Strengthening Public Safety and Property Rights by Advancing the Impeachment of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner for Failing to Prosecute Crime.
This resolution serves as a "writ of summons" to advance the impeachment of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. The motion follows actions by the House, which impeached Krasner on 6 accounts, finding him "derelict in his obligations to the victims of crime, the people of the City of Philadelphia and of this Commonwealth and has failed to uphold his oath of office." Supporters of impeachment cite Krasner's prosecution record, which includes a 90% reduction in retail theft prosecutions and Krasner's office only achieving a 14% conviction rate on the cases that were prosecuted. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety serve as essential components of government. Krasner, who received nearly $1.7 million in campaign support from George Soros during the 2017 election, has demonstrated through countless statistical measurements that he has failed in his duty to protect Philadelphia and surrounding communities.
Supports
Limited
Government
Limited
Government