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Bill

HB 1248

An Act amending Titles 65 (Public Officers) and 71 (State Government) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for restricted activities; and, in benefits, providing for payment of benefits from the system to former members of General Assembly.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Hanbidge and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1248 strengthens Pennsylvania ethics rules for public officials and establishes or modifies benefit payments to former state legislators.

Referred to State Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1248

Legislative bill overview

HB 1248 amends Pennsylvania ethics laws and state benefits regulations in two main areas: it strengthens restrictions on activities by public officials under ethics standards, and it creates or modifies a benefit payment system for former members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The bill addresses both conduct rules for current officeholders and post-service compensation for legislators.

Why is this important

Ethics restrictions directly affect what elected officials can do while in office—including potential conflicts of interest, lobbying activities, or financial dealings. Changes to post-service benefits for legislators affect state spending and can influence whether former lawmakers receive pensions or other compensation after leaving office. Both aspects have fiscal and governance implications for Pennsylvania's legislative branch.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of restricted activities: Unclear what specific new restrictions are being added; some may view stronger ethics rules as necessary accountability while others might see them as limiting legitimate business or professional activities
  • Fiscal cost of benefits expansion: Any expansion of benefits to former General Assembly members increases state spending; opponents may question whether additional payments are justified given budget constraints
  • Retroactive application concerns: Whether new rules or benefits apply to current lawmakers, future ones, or both—affecting sitting legislators' interests and creating fairness debates

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

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