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HR 136

A Resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and establish an advisory committee to determine the impact on Pennsylvania taxpayers of Pennsylvania State Police full or partial police services for municipalities that do not maintain full police coverage.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 16 co-sponsors

PA commission will study whether state police coverage of under-resourced municipalities creates unfair taxpayer burdens and establish advisory committee to assess fiscal impact.

Laid on the table (Pursuant to House Rule 71)
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Bill Summary · HR 136

Legislative bill overview

HR 136 directs Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to study and establish an advisory committee examining the fiscal impact on taxpayers when the Pennsylvania State Police provide full or partial police services to municipalities lacking their own police forces. The resolution seeks to understand the cost distribution and implications of this service arrangement across the state.

Why is this important

Many Pennsylvania municipalities cannot afford to maintain independent police departments and rely on state police coverage, creating questions about fair cost allocation between local and state budgets. This study could inform future debates about police funding responsibility, municipal consolidation, or state police budget allocation—potentially affecting both local tax rates and state spending priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost-shifting concerns: Results may show state police subsidize under-resourced municipalities, raising debate over whether locals should pay more or the state should absorb costs
  • Municipal autonomy vs. efficiency: Findings might recommend consolidation or state takeovers of local police functions, conflicting with local control preferences
  • Equitable burden: Wealthier municipalities with their own forces may resent subsidizing coverage in poorer areas, or vice versa depending on the study's conclusions
  • Implementation costs: The study itself requires resources, and recommendations may be expensive to implement

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

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