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Bill

HB 2146

An Act amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in open meetings, further providing for notification of agency business required and exceptions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 29 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill modifies government agency meeting notification requirements and exemption rules to adjust transparency-versus-efficiency balance in open meetings law.

Re-committed to Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 2146

Legislative bill overview

HB 2146 amends Pennsylvania's open meetings law (Title 65) to modify requirements for how government agencies must notify the public about upcoming business and alters which meetings qualify for exemptions from public attendance. The bill was introduced with bipartisan sponsorship and has completed its first consideration in committee.

Why is this important

Open meetings laws are foundational to government transparency and public accountability. Changes to notification requirements or exemption standards directly affect citizens' ability to observe and participate in government decision-making, particularly at the local level where many decisions impact daily life.

Potential points of contention

  • Notification burden vs. accessibility: Stricter notification requirements could improve public access but may increase administrative costs for local agencies with limited resources
  • Exemption scope: Expanding or clarifying exemptions (personnel, contracts, legal advice, etc.) involves balancing privacy/efficiency against transparency principles
  • Digital vs. traditional notice: The bill's approach to how notifications are distributed (online, physical posting, newspapers) affects equity in who can realistically attend meetings

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

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