DiSanto & Brooks Reintroduce Reforms to Hold State Regulators Accountable

HARRISBURG—State Senators John DiSanto (R-15) and Michele Brooks (R-50) have reintroduced bills to put the brakes on excessive state regulations.  

Under SB 5, no regulation with an economic impact or cost to the Commonwealth, to its political subdivisions, and to the private sector exceeding $1 million could be imposed without approval of the General Assembly. This change would help protect businesses, non-profits, educational institutions, and individuals from costly, burdensome regulations.

“Our current regulatory process vests too much power in unelected government employees that lack direct accountability to the people. This often leads to rules being crafted without the consent of the governed,” said DiSanto. “Our legislation upholds important constitutional checks and balances by ensuring executive branch actions follow legislative intent.”

SB 119 meanwhile, seeks to count, cap and cut the number of regulations in Pennsylvania. The bill institutes a “one-in, two-out” regulatory model. For every new requirement in a Pennsylvania regulation, two must be eliminated. After six years, this would be replaced by “one-in, one-out.” The senators point to the success of similar policies in both Canada and the United Kingdom as evidence this proposal can control bureaucratic growth and kick start the economy.

“I consistently hear that over-reaching regulations create undue burdens on our farmers, local governments, and business owners. This legislation is an important step in identifying and rolling back bureaucratic red tape that stifles our agriculture industry, communities, and job growth,” Brooks said. “By loosening the grip of government, we can free innovators and investors and cultivate growth and new jobs.”

 

CONTACT:
For Sen. DiSanto, Chuck Erdman 717-787-6801 cerdman@pasen.gov
For Sen. Brooks, Diane McNaughton 717-787-1322 dmmcnaughton@pasen.gov

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