Mike's Memo

Week of May 12, 2008

Marriage Amendment Postponed

Senate Bill 1250, which would amend Pennsylvania's Constitution to provide for marriage between one man and one woman, was tabled (postponed) by the Senate because of its uncertain future in the House.  Given that the bill is a proposed constitutional amendment, it must be passed by both chambers of the General Assembly during this legislative session (2007-2008) and then identical language must be passed again by both chambers in the 2009 – 2010 legislative session.  Any constitutional amendment that is passed in two consecutive sessions of the General Assembly must then be advertised, put on the ballot, and voted by citizens in a general election.  Since it is impossible to meet these advertising requirements, the bill is dead for the current legislative session.

Continued Discussions on Smoking Ban Bill

The Conference Committee to iron out differences between the House and Senate versions of Senate Bill 246 met, but did not take action, to send the Senate and House a plan to resolve the differences between the two chambers' versions of this bill.  In other words, neither the House nor the Senate has legislation to consider on this important issue at this time.

Changes Proposed to Pennsylvania Food Laws

Despite my objections, the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee amended and reported out House Bill 1422, which would amend three food laws:

• Public Eating and Drinking Place Law
• Food Act
• Food Employee Certification

My main concern with the proposed changes is that they would add additional burdens to businesses and nonprofit organizations. I also question the constitutionality of permits and licenses.  Finally, I did not like the fact that two new fees would be created by this bill:  a $150 inspection fee and $300 for third and subsequent follow up inspections.  House Bill 1422 now goes to the full Senate for consideration.

Puppy Lemon Law Changes Proposed

The Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee also unanimously reported out Senate Bill 536, which amends the "Puppy Lemon Law."  The basic idea of this bill is to change the timelines that apply to dog purchases.  Senate Bill 536 is supported by the Attorney General and now goes to the full Senate for consideration.

Reminders

Don't forget these upcoming events. All meetings begin at 7 p.m.

• Local Government Roundtable -    Thursday, May 15, at HACC Lebanon Campus
• Berks-Area Town Hall Meetings - Tuesday, May 20, Spring Township Fire Company, West Lawn (joint meeting with Rep. Cox) and Wednesday, May 28, West Lawn Community Center, 101 Woodside Avenue, West Lawn