HARRISBURG — The Senate passed a series of bills this week advanced by the Senate Local Government Committee, chaired by Sen. Dawn Keefer (R-31), designed to improve the efficiency and accessibility of local government operations across Pennsylvania.
One key measure, Senate Bill 1036, sponsored by Keefer, consolidates the First Class Township Code into Title 73 — a step that makes it easier for lawmakers to improve local government laws and for the public to access to them.
Other bills passed by the Senate include:
- Senate Bill 862, sponsored by Sen. Patty Kim (D-15), ensures vacancies on borough councils are filled more efficiently when council members are unable to do so.
- Senate Bill 871, sponsored by Sen. Cris Dush (R-25), authorizes second class townships to accept irrevocable letters of credit or other security as a form of contract security.
- Senate Bill 971, sponsored by Sen. Timothy Kearney (D-26), changes the deadline for completion, filing and publication of the annual township report for second class townships from April 1 to June 30, resulting in more timely audits and financial reporting.
- Senate Bill 972, sponsored by Kearney, updates the Second Class Township Code to allow municipal memorials honoring first responders and replaces outdated language referring to “soldier.”
- Senate Bill 975, sponsored by Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21), adjusts deadlines for completion, filing and publication of audits and annual financial reports for boroughs and cities to June 30 following the close of the fiscal year.
- Senate Bill 993, sponsored by Keefer, updates the Borough Code, Third Class City Code and County Code to allow municipal memorials for first responders and modernizes outdated language.
- House Bill 1651, sponsored by Rep. Robert Freeman (D-136), expedites the process for filling township supervisor vacancies in second class townships and clarifies conflict-of-interest rules for vacancy board chairs.
“The bipartisan support for these bills reflects our commitment to practical, thoughtful legislation that empowers local leaders,” said Keefer. “By improving local government operations, we are ensuring communities across Pennsylvania are stronger, more efficient and better able to serve their residents.”
The passage of these measures marks a significant step forward in strengthening local governance and supporting municipalities throughout the commonwealth.
CONTACT: Crystal Patterson, 717-432-1730