WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1360

An Act requiring persons convicted of arson and related offenses to register with local authorities; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Parole Board; and imposing a penalty.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Conklin and 4 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania would require arson convicts to register with local authorities, enforced by state police and parole board, with penalties for non-compliance.

Referred to Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1360

Legislative bill overview

HB 1360 would establish a registration requirement for individuals convicted of arson and related offenses in Pennsylvania, similar to existing sex offender registries. The bill assigns enforcement duties to the Pennsylvania State Police and Pennsylvania Parole Board, and creates penalties for non-compliance with registration requirements.

Why is this important

Arson causes significant property damage, poses severe public safety risks, and can result in loss of life. A registration system could help law enforcement track offenders post-conviction and potentially prevent recidivism. This represents a policy shift to treat arson offenses with enhanced post-release monitoring mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition questions: "Arson and related offenses" is broad and undefined in the bill summary—unclear whether this includes attempted arson, reckless burning, or only felony-level arson, potentially affecting thousands of offenders
  • Constitutional concerns: Opponents may challenge registration as an unconstitutional ex post facto punishment or excessive burden on free movement, particularly if applied retroactively to past convictions
  • Implementation costs and practicality: Establishing and maintaining a statewide registry requires significant resources; unclear how local authorities would coordinate or fund administration, and whether rehabilitation-focused offenders pose justifiable monitoring risk

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

Sign in to ask a question.