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Bill

HB 464

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, further providing for courts to be open and suits against the Commonwealth.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Boyd and 33 co-sponsors

Constitutional amendment expanding public lawsuits against Pennsylvania and strengthening court access, increasing state liability and judicial workload.

Resolution to discharge committee from further consideration of this bill dropped from calendar
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 464

Legislative bill overview

HB 464 is a constitutional amendment proposal that would expand citizens' ability to sue the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and further guarantee that courts remain open to the public. The amendment modifies existing constitutional protections regarding access to courts and sovereign immunity limitations for the state government.

Why is this important

This amendment directly affects citizens' legal recourse against state government actions and protections for judicial transparency. It could enable more lawsuits against Pennsylvania state agencies and institutions, potentially increasing litigation costs for the state while providing individuals with additional avenues for seeking remedies against government conduct.

Potential points of contention

  • State liability exposure: Expanding the ability to sue the Commonwealth increases fiscal liability for taxpayers and may require budget allocations for litigation defense and settlements
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language about "further providing" for suits is vague—it's unclear exactly what new categories of lawsuits would be permitted or what existing limitations would be removed
  • Judicial workload: Increased authority to sue the state could substantially burden court dockets, affecting case processing times for all litigants

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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