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Bill

HB 1255

A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for workers' rights.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 48 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania proposes constitutional amendment establishing workers' rights protections, requiring two-session legislative approval and voter ratification to strengthen labor law permanence.

Referred to Labor & Industry
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1255

Legislative bill overview

HB 1255 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to add workers' rights protections to Pennsylvania's constitution. The bill has been referred to the Labor & Industry Committee as of April 2025. As a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment, it would require approval from the Pennsylvania legislature in two consecutive sessions and ratification by voters before becoming part of the state constitution.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments carry significantly greater weight and durability than statutory laws, as they cannot be easily repealed by future legislatures. Adding workers' rights to Pennsylvania's constitution would establish fundamental protections that could affect labor policy, collective bargaining, workplace safety standards, and employment regulations across the state for generations. This reflects broader national debates about worker protections in an evolving economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Specificity of rights: The resolution's language regarding which specific workers' rights receive constitutional protection (wages, union organizing, safety, scheduling, etc.) will likely be contentious, as different stakeholders prioritize different protections
  • Business impact concerns: Employers and business groups may argue that constitutionalizing workers' rights could increase compliance costs, limit operational flexibility, and reduce Pennsylvania's competitiveness for attracting businesses
  • Amendment threshold requirements: Since constitutional amendments require two legislative sessions and voter approval, the bill faces high procedural hurdles and may face opposition from those concerned about the amendment process being used for policy preferences

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

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