reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6014 - Expansion financing

§ 6014. Expansion financing.
(a) Commonwealth funds.--
Any grants of Commonwealth funds to the authority or for use by the authority to finance any expansion or substantial renovation of the convention center shall be subject to the requirements of this section.
(b) Managerial audit.--
(1) If the board has not initiated or completed a managerial audit within 12 months prior to the effective date of this section, the board shall initiate a managerial audit of the convention center to be performed by an independent auditor. The audit shall examine all of the following:
(i) payroll and personnel practices;
(ii) equipment controls and security;
(iii) management activities;
(iv) management control systems;
(v) cost overruns for conventions held at the convention center;
(vi) labor productivity;
(vii) comparison of costs with convention centers in other states;
(viii) work rules;
(ix) appropriate benchmarks for evaluation of convention center performance;
(x) rebooking rates; and
(xi) any other items proposed by the board.
(2) The board shall order subsequent independent managerial audits no later than 90 days after the end of every third fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending in 2004.
(c) Code of conduct.--
The board shall establish a code of conduct and a system to enforce the code of conduct.
(d) Customer service.--
The board shall do all of the following:
(1) Establish dispute resolution mechanisms for the use of customers of the convention center.
(2) Adopt a plan for documenting, investigating and resolving customer complaints.
(3) Implement the systematic collection of customer feedback and monitor customer satisfaction.
(4) Adopt a system of program measures and benchmarks to evaluate changes in customer satisfaction over time. The program measures shall include customer perspectives on labor jurisdiction disputes, overall labor environment and labor efficiency.
(e) Release.--
Prior to the release of any Commonwealth funds to finance any expansion or substantial renovation, the Secretary of the Budget in his sole discretion shall certify to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives that the board has complied with subsections (b), (c) and (d).
(f) Financial plan.--
The authority shall submit a proposed financial plan for an expansion or substantial renovation of the convention center to the Governor, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority. The financial plan shall be considered a public record. The Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority shall prepare a detailed analysis on the fiscal impact and financial risks for the expansion or substantial renovation and provide the detailed analysis to the Governor, the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The analysis shall be considered a public record.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6015 - Transfer of existing facilities or funds; making of annual grants and lease payments to authority; Commonwealth bonds

§ 6015. Transfer of existing facilities or funds; making of annual grants and lease payments to authority;
Commonwealth bonds.
(a) Authority granted.--
(1) A State public body, political subdivision or the city may sell, lease or sublease from or to, lend, grant, convey or otherwise transfer or pay over directly to the authority, with or without consideration, any of the following:
(i) A convention center or parts of a convention center.
(ii) Any interest in property, real, personal or mixed, tangible or intangible.
(iii) Any funds available, needed or obligated for development, acquisition, design, maintenance, management, operation, financing, leasing or subleasing construction, expansion or substantial renovation or improvement purposes. This subparagraph includes the proceeds of bonds previously or hereafter issued for construction or improvement of a convention center or parts of a convention center.
(iv) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any grant shall be made directly to the authority.
(2) Any property, funds or convention center or parts of a convention center received by the authority may be used for any lawful purpose of the authority.
(3) Nothing in this chapter nor in any other law shall be deemed to make an authority or any persons, State-supported or State-aided institutions under any laws of this Commonwealth.
(b) Grants authorized.--
(1) A city may do any of the following:
(i) Make grants from current revenue to the authority.
(ii) Assist in defraying the cost of management, operation, maintenance, financing and debt service of a convention center or parts of a convention center.
(iii) Enter into long-term agreements providing for the payment of grants made or costs defrayed under subparagraph (i) or (ii).
(iv) Enter into long-term leases or subleases as lessee or sublessee of all or part of a convention center.
(2) Obligations of a city to make grants, lease or sublease payments to an authority shall not, even if based on debt obligations of an authority, constitute debts of the city within the meaning of any constitutional or statutory provision and shall be payable only to the extent that current revenues of the city are available.
(3) A city may issue general obligation bonds for the purpose of obtaining funds for local contributions pertaining to convention centers or parts of convention centers.
Cross References.
Section 6015 is referred to in section 6016 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6018 - Sovereign immunity

§ 6018. Sovereign immunity.
It is declared to be the intent of the General Assembly that the authority created pursuant to this chapter and its members, officers, officials and employees shall enjoy sovereign and official immunity as provided in 1 Pa.C.S. § 2310 (relating to sovereign immunity reaffirmed; specific waiver) and shall remain immune from suit except as provided by and subject to the provisions of 42 Pa.C.S. Ch. 85 Subch. B (relating to actions against Commonwealth parties). Notwithstanding the provisions of 42 Pa.C.S. § 8525 (relating to legal assistance), the authority through its counsel shall defend actions brought against the authority and its officers and employees when acting within the scope of their official duties.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6019 - Use and operation of convention center

§ 6019. Use and operation of convention center.
The use and operation of the convention center and any parts of a convention center and the operation of the business of the authority shall be subject to the rules and regulations adopted by the authority. The authority shall not be authorized to do anything which will impair the security of the obligees of the authority or violate any agreements with them or for their benefit or violate any contracts, leases or other agreements awarded, made or entered into by the authority.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6021 - Limitation of powers

§ 6021. Limitation of powers.
(a) Commonwealth pledge.--
The Commonwealth pledges to and agrees with any person, the city, political subdivision or Federal agency subscribing to or acquiring the bonds to be issued by the authority for the construction or improvement of a convention center or parts of a convention center that the Commonwealth will not limit or alter the rights and powers vested in the authority by this chapter or otherwise created by this chapter in any manner inconsistent with the obligations to the bondholders until all bonds, together with the interest on the bonds, are fully paid and discharged. The Commonwealth further pledges to and agrees with any Federal agency that, in the event any Federal agency shall construct or contribute any funds for the construction or improvement of a convention center or parts of a convention center, the Commonwealth will not alter or limit the rights and powers of the authority in any manner which would be inconsistent with the due performance of any agreements between the authority and the Federal agency.
(b) Additional Commonwealth pledge.--
The Commonwealth pledges to and agrees with any person that, as owner of a convention center, leases or subleases a convention center or parts of a convention center to or from an authority created or continued pursuant to this chapter that the Commonwealth will not limit or alter the rights and powers vested by this chapter in the authority or otherwise created by this chapter in any manner which impairs the obligations of the authority until all obligations of the authority under the lease or sublease are fully met and discharged.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6022 - Exemption from taxation

§ 6022. Exemption from taxation.
The effectuation of the authorized purposes of an authority created under this chapter shall be in all respects for the benefit of the people of this Commonwealth, for the increase of their commerce and prosperity and for the improvement of their health and living conditions. The authority will, as a public instrumentality of the Commonwealth, be performing essential governmental functions. In effectuating such purposes, the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon a convention center or part of a convention center or upon property acquired or used or permitted to be used by an authority for such purposes. Bonds issued by an authority and the transfer of and income from bonds, including profit made on the sale of bonds, shall be free from State and local taxation within this Commonwealth. This exemption shall not extend to gift, estate, succession or inheritance taxes or any other taxes not levied directly on the bonds, the transfer of bonds, the income from bonds or the realization of profits on the sale of bonds.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6023 - Lease by authority

§ 6023. Lease by authority.
A convention center or part of a convention center established or continued under this chapter may be leased or subleased by the authority to and from the city. The city is empowered to enter into leases, subleases or both. A lease or sublease may be made for a specified or unlimited time and on any terms and conditions approved by the city and agreed to by the authority in conformity with its contracts with the holders of any bonds.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 60 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority › Section 6026 - Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund

§ 6026. Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund.
There is established a special fund to be known as the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund. The State Treasurer shall be custodian of the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund, which shall be subject to the provisions of law applicable to funds listed in section 302 of the act of April 9, 1929 (P.L.343, No.176), known as The Fiscal Code. Any money designated for the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund shall be credited to the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund. All moneys and investments on deposit in or credited to the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund shall be at all times property of the authority. The State Treasurer shall disburse money in the Pennsylvania Convention Center Assistance Fund to the authority or upon order of the authority for use in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
Effective Date.
Section 7(1) of Act 3 of 2004 provided that section 6026 shall take effect upon publication of the notice under section 6 of Act 3.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6111 - Authority

§ 6111. Authority.
(a) Establishment.--
The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority is established as an independent authority. The authority shall be an instrumentality of the Commonwealth and a body corporate and politic, with corporate succession. The exercise by the authority of the powers conferred on the authority by this chapter shall be deemed and held to be a public and essential government function.
(b) Governance.--
The authority shall be governed by a board of directors as provided in section 6112 (relating to board). The powers of the authority shall be exercised by the board.
(c) Fiscal year.--
The fiscal year of the authority shall be the same as the fiscal year of the Commonwealth.
(d) Dissolution.--
Upon dissolution of the authority, all property, money and assets of the authority shall be vested in the Commonwealth. The authority shall dissolve upon the later of:
(1) ten years from the effective date of this section; or
(2) all Federal funds available for the purposes of this chapter have been exhausted and all applicable duties and responsibilities under Federal law or guidance have been completed.
(d.1) Notice.--
Prior to dissolution under subsection (d), the authority shall transmit notice of the dissolution to the Legislative Reference Bureau for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
(e) Procurement.--
The authority shall be considered an independent agency for purposes of 62 Pa.C.S. Pt. I (relating to Commonwealth Procurement Code).
(f) Applicability.--
The following acts shall apply to the authority and the board:
(1) The act of July 19, 1957 (P.L.1017, No.451), known as the State Adverse Interest Act.
(2) The act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), known as the Right-to-Know Law.
(3) The provisions of 65 Pa.C.S. Chs. 7 (relating to open meetings) and 11 (relating to ethics standards and financial disclosure).
Cross References.
Section 6111 is referred to in sections 6102, 6123 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6113 - Audits

§ 6113. Audits.
The accounts and books of the authority, including its receipts, disbursements, contracts, mortgages, investments and other matters relating to its finances, operations and affairs, shall be examined and audited by the Auditor General.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6114 - Annual report

§ 6114. Annual report.
The board shall provide the Governor and the General Assembly with an annual report by March 31 of each year detailing all projects funded under section 6123 (relating to grant awards generally). The annual report shall be published and maintained on the authority's publicly accessible Internet website and may be submitted to the Governor and the General Assembly by electronic mail.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6116 - Use of money of authority

§ 6116. Use of money of authority.
(a) Use.--
The board shall use the money available to the authority to fund the program as necessary.
(b) Administrative expenses.--
The authority shall use the money available to the authority to pay the administrative expenses of the department and the authority incurred under this chapter.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6121 - Corporate powers and duties in general

§ 6121. Corporate powers and duties in general.
The authority shall have and may exercise all powers necessary or appropriate to carry out and effectuate the authority's purposes under this chapter, including the following:
(1) Adopt bylaws, if necessary.
(2) Make and execute contracts, grants and other instruments.
(3) Apply for and receive money from any source consistent with the purposes of this chapter, including letters of intent and proposals under section 6122(f) (relating to specific powers and duties).
(4) Establish priorities for and allocate and disburse money received consistent with the purposes of this chapter.
(5) Establish subcommittees composed of members of the board or nonmembers of the board to consult with and advise the authority.
(6) Adopt a Statewide broadband plan.
(7) Perform other operational activities necessary or appropriate to further the purposes of this chapter.
Cross References.
Section 6121 is referred to in section 6112 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6122 - Specific powers and duties

§ 6122. Specific powers and duties.
(a) Single point of contact.--
The authority shall aim to serve as a single point of contact for entities wishing to engage in broadband development and deployment in this Commonwealth, including coordination of public and private efforts to avoid overbuild in any given geographic area and to efficiently utilize existing infrastructure.
(b) Funding resource base.--
In addition to providing the financial assistance authorized by this chapter to support broadband deployment, the authority shall identify and promote opportunities to access Federal funding, nongovernmental organization funding and other funding opportunities to eliminate duplicative funding requests and synthesize multiple-provider joint efforts in any given geographic area.
(c) Cooperation of other Commonwealth entities.--
The authority shall maintain a centralized database of all broadband deployment activities occurring within Commonwealth agencies and departments. All Commonwealth agencies and departments charged with specific aspects of broadband development and deployment shall communicate and cooperate with the authority regarding the authority's development and maintenance of the centralized database to avoid duplication of efforts as well as provide consultation on their respective areas of expertise.
(d) Educational materials.--
The authority may develop educational materials and engage in public information campaigns to encourage adoption of broadband where currently available and increase consumer understanding of the need for broadband access for all Commonwealth residents.
(e) Municipal best practices.--
The authority may develop best practices for municipalities in order to expedite broadband development and deployment.
(f) Letters of intent and proposals.--
The authority shall be responsible for drafting and filing all letters of intent, initial and final proposals or other correspondence as required to maximize access to Federal funding for broadband development and deployment.
(g) Broadband plan.--
The authority shall develop a Statewide broadband plan in collaboration with local and regional entities to advance broadband buildout, including equitable access and digital literacy components, for the benefit of residents of this Commonwealth and as necessary to facilitate access of applicants to funding opportunities from the Federal Government. The Statewide broadband plan shall also incorporate opportunities to utilize Commonwealth assets to the extent practicable. The Statewide broadband plan shall inure as expeditiously as possible and no later than one year from the effective date of this section. A political subdivision shall have the opportunity to comment upon an initial Statewide broadband plan proposal of the authority.
Cross References.
Section 6122 is referred to in sections 6102, 6121 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 64 - PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND QUASI-PUBLIC CORPORATIONS › Chapter 61 - Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority › Section 6123 - Grant awards generally

§ 6123. Grant awards generally.
(a) Authorization.--
The authority shall award grants under one or more programs established by the authority to fund projects, and the amount of the grants shall be limited to the money available to the authority. The authority shall aim to disburse all money available before dissolution under section 6111(d) (relating to authority).
(b) Eligible entity.--
The following shall apply:
(1) For projects related to high-speed broadband service infrastructure, an applicant with the technical, managerial and financial expertise to design, build and operate high-speed broadband service infrastructure within this Commonwealth shall be eligible to apply for a grant from the authority for the development and deployment of the high-speed broadband service infrastructure. In order to qualify for a grant from the authority, the applicant shall commit to investing a minimum amount of the entity's capital to finance a proposed high-speed broadband service infrastructure project as determined by the authority in accordance with Federal law or guidance.
(2) For all other projects, eligible entities and minimum investment requirements shall be determined by the authority in accordance with Federal law or guidance.
(c) Other funding sources.--
A Federal, State or local government grant, loan or subsidy received by an applicant to finance a proposed project shall not be counted toward the capital investment requirement under subsection (b) unless otherwise determined by the authority. An applicant may use a Federal, State or local government grant, loan or subsidy to finance a proposed project under subsection (b) if the entity satisfies the capital investment requirement under subsection (b).
(d) Ineligible projects.--
Proposed projects that will result in overbuild in which less than 80 percent of broadband-serviceable locations served by the proposed project are unserved or underserved or are to be managed or operated by a Federal or State entity shall be ineligible to receive a grant from the authority under this section.
Cross References.
Section 6123 is referred to in sections 6102, 6114, 6124 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Extra - Title Notes

Special Provisions in Appendix.
See sections 2 and 7 of Act 93 of 1998 in the appendix to this title for special provisions
            relating to transition provisions and legislative intent.
Special Provisions in Appendix.
See sections 4(a) and (b) and 5 of Act 93 of 1998 in the appendix to this title for
            special provisions relating to applicability and codification of existing law.
Special Provisions in Appendix.
See sections 2(c) and (d) and 5 of Act 93 of 1998 in the appendix to this title for
            special provisions relating to continuation of members of State Ethics Commission,
            continuation of appropriations and codification of existing law.
Special Provisions in Appendix.
See sections 4 and 5 of Act 134 of 2006 in the appendix to this title for special
            provisions relating to publication of notice and utilization of funds.
Enactment.
Unless otherwise noted, the provisions of Title 65 were added October 15, 1998, P.L.729,
            No.93, effective in 60 days.
Enactment.
Part II was added October 15, 1998, P.L.729, No.93, effective in 60 days.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Extra - Chapter Notes

Enactment.
Chapter 7 was added October 15, 1998, P.L.729, No.93, effective in 60 days.
Cross References.
Chapter 7 is referred to in section 13A10 of this title; sections 1511, 9311, 9319
            of Title 3 (Agriculture); sections 1201.1, 1202.1 of Title 4 (Amusements); sections
            1006, 1111, 1183, 1191, 24A04 of Title 8 (Boroughs and Incorporated Towns); sections
            11005, 12416, 13706 of Title 11 (Cities); section 503 of Title 12 (Commerce and Trade);
            section 3115 of Title 27 (Environmental Resources); sections 3303, 5303, 5741, 7386,
            8108 of Title 35 (Health and Safety); sections 9302, 9304 of Title 40 (Insurance);
            section 2152 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure); section 3305 of Title
            58 (Oil and Gas); sections 5007, 6163 of Title 61 (Prisons and Parole); section 3753
            of Title 62 (Procurement); sections 1511, 6017, 6111 of Title 64 (Public Authorities
            and Quasi-Public Corporations); section 2113 of Title 68 (Real and Personal Property);
            sections 3101, 5958 of Title 71 (State Government); sections 1741, 8205, 9103 of Title
            74 (Transportation); section 3345.1 of Title 75 (Vehicles).
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 702 - Legislative findings and declaration

§ 702. Legislative findings and declaration.
(a) Findings.--
The General Assembly finds that the right of the public to be present at all meetings of agencies and to witness the deliberation, policy formulation and decisionmaking of agencies is vital to the enhancement and proper functioning of the democratic process and that secrecy in public affairs undermines the faith of the public in government and the public's effectiveness in fulfilling its role in a democratic society.
(b) Declarations.--
The General Assembly hereby declares it to be the public policy of this Commonwealth to insure the right of its citizens to have notice of and the right to attend all meetings of agencies at which any agency business is discussed or acted upon as provided in this chapter.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 704 - Open meetings

§ 704. Open meetings.
Official action and deliberations by a quorum of the members of an agency shall take place at a meeting open to the public unless closed under section 707 (relating to exceptions to open meetings), 708 (relating to executive sessions) or 712 (relating to General Assembly meetings covered).
Cross References.
Section 704 is referred to in section 708 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 705 - Recording of votes

§ 705. Recording of votes.
In all meetings of agencies, the vote of each member who actually votes on any resolution, rule, order, regulation, ordinance or the setting of official policy must be publicly cast and, in the case of roll call votes, recorded.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 706 - Minutes of meetings, public records and recording of meetings

§ 706. Minutes of meetings, public records and recording of meetings.
Written minutes shall be kept of all open meetings of agencies. The minutes shall include:
(1) The date, time and place of the meeting.
(2) The names of members present.
(3) The substance of all official actions and a record by individual member of the roll call votes taken.
(4) The names of all citizens who appeared officially and the subject of their testimony.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 707 - Exceptions to open meetings

§ 707. Exceptions to open meetings.
(a) Executive session.--
An agency may hold an executive session under section 708 (relating to executive sessions).
(b) Conference.--
An agency is authorized to participate in a conference which need not be open to the public. Deliberation of agency business may not occur at a conference.
(c) Certain working sessions.--
Boards of auditors may conduct working sessions not open to the public for the purpose of examining, analyzing, discussing and deliberating the various accounts and records with respect to which such boards are responsible, so long as official action of a board with respect to such records and accounts is taken at a meeting open to the public and subject to the provisions of this chapter.
Cross References.
Section 707 is referred to in sections 704, 708, 709, 712.1 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 710 - Rules and regulations for conduct of meetings

§ 710. Rules and regulations for conduct of meetings.
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit the agency from adopting by official action the rules and regulations necessary for the conduct of its meetings and the maintenance of order. The rules and regulations shall not be made to violate the intent of this chapter.
Cross References.
Section 710 is referred to in section 711 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 710.1 - Public participation

§ 710.1. Public participation.
(a) General rule.--
Except as provided in subsection (d), the board or council of a political subdivision or of an authority created by a political subdivision shall provide a reasonable opportunity at each advertised regular meeting and advertised special meeting for residents of the political subdivision or of the authority created by a political subdivision or for taxpayers of the political subdivision or of the authority created by a political subdivision or for both to comment on matters of concern, official action or deliberation which are or may be before the board or council prior to taking official action. The board or council has the option to accept all public comment at the beginning of the meeting. If the board or council determines that there is not sufficient time at a meeting for residents of the political subdivision or of the authority created by a political subdivision or for taxpayers of the political subdivision or of the authority created by a political subdivision or for both to comment, the board or council may defer the comment period to the next regular meeting or to a special meeting occurring in advance of the next regular meeting.
(b) Limitation on judicial relief.--
If a board or council of a political subdivision or an authority created by a political subdivision has complied with the provisions of subsection (a), the judicial relief under section 713 (relating to business transacted at unauthorized meeting void) shall not be available on a specific action solely on the basis of lack of comment on that action.
(c) Objection.--
Any person has the right to raise an objection at any time to a perceived violation of this chapter at any meeting of a board or council of a political subdivision or an authority created by a political subdivision.
(d) Exception.--
The board or council of a political subdivision or of an authority created by a political subdivision which had, before January 1, 1993, established a practice or policy of holding special meetings solely for the purpose of public comment in advance of advertised regular meetings shall be exempt from the provisions of subsection (a).
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 711 - Use of equipment during meetings

§ 711. Use of equipment during meetings.
(a) Recording devices.--
Except as provided in subsection (b), a person attending a meeting of an agency shall have the right to use recording devices to record all the proceedings. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the agency from adopting and enforcing reasonable rules for their use under section 710 (relating to rules and regulations for conduct of meetings).
(b) Rules of the Senate and House of Representatives.--
The Senate and House of Representatives may adopt rules governing the recording or broadcast of their sessions and meetings and hearings of committees.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 712 - General Assembly meetings covered

§ 712. General Assembly meetings covered.
Notwithstanding any other provision, for the purpose of this chapter, meetings of the General Assembly which are covered are as follows: all meetings of committees where bills are considered, all hearings where testimony is taken and all sessions of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Not included in the intent of this chapter are caucuses or meetings of any ethics committee created pursuant to the Rules of the Senate or the House of Representatives.
Cross References.
Section 712 is referred to in section 704 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 712.1 - Notification of agency business required and exceptions

§ 712.1. Notification of agency business required and exceptions.
(a) Official action.--
Except as provided in subsection (b), (c), (d) or (e), an agency may not take official action on a matter of agency business at a meeting if the matter was not included in the notification required under section 709(c.1) (relating to public notice).
(b) Emergency business.--
An agency may take official action at a regularly scheduled meeting or an emergency meeting on a matter of agency business relating to a real or potential emergency involving a clear and present danger to life or property regardless of whether public notice was given for the meeting.
(c) Business arising within 24 hours before meeting.--
An agency may take official action on a matter of agency business that is not listed on a meeting agenda if:
(1) the matter arises or is brought to the attention of the agency within the 24-hour period prior to the meeting; and
(2) the matter is de minimis in nature and does not involve the expenditure of funds or entering into a contract or agreement by the agency.
(d) Business arising during meeting.--
If, during the conduct of a meeting, a resident or taxpayer brings a matter of agency business that is not listed on the meeting agenda to the attention of the agency, the agency may take official action to refer the matter to staff, if applicable, for the purpose of researching the matter for inclusion on the agenda of a future meeting, or, if the matter is de minimis in nature and does not involve the expenditure of funds or entering into a contract or agreement, the agency may take official action on the matter.
(e) Changes to agenda.--
(1) Upon majority vote of the individuals present and voting during the conduct of a meeting, an agency may add a matter of agency business to the agenda. The reasons for the changes to the agenda shall be announced at the meeting before any vote is conducted to make the changes to the agenda. The agency may subsequently take official action on the matter added to the agenda. The agency shall post the amended agenda on the agency's publicly accessible Internet website, if available, and at the agency's principal office location no later than the first business day following the meeting at which the agenda was changed.
(2) This subsection shall not apply to a conference or a working session under section 707 (relating to exceptions to open meetings) or an executive session under section 708 (relating to executive sessions).
(f) Minutes.--
If action is taken upon a matter of agency business added to the agenda under this section, the minutes of the meeting shall reflect the substance of the matter added, the vote on the addition and the announced reasons for the addition.
(June 30, 2021, P.L.350, No.65, eff. 60 days)
2021 Amendment.
Act 65 added section 712.1.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 713 - Business transacted at unauthorized meeting void

§ 713. Business transacted at unauthorized meeting void.
A legal challenge under this chapter shall be filed within 30 days from the date of a meeting which is open, or within 30 days from the discovery of any action that occurred at a meeting which was not open at which this chapter was violated, provided that, in the case of a meeting which was not open, no legal challenge may be commenced more than one year from the date of said meeting. The court may enjoin any challenged action until a judicial determination of the legality of the meeting at which the action was adopted is reached. Should the court determine that the meeting did not meet the requirements of this chapter, it may in its discretion find that any or all official action taken at the meeting shall be invalid. Should the court determine that the meeting met the requirements of this chapter, all official action taken at the meeting shall be fully effective.
Cross References.
Section 713 is referred to in section 710.1 of this title.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 714 - Penalty

§ 714. Penalty.
(a) Fines and costs.--
Any member of any agency who participates in a meeting with the intent and purpose by that member of violating this chapter commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay:
(1) For a first offense, the costs of prosecution plus a fine of at least $100 and, in the discretion of the sentencing authority, of not more than $1,000.
(2) For a second or subsequent offense, the costs of prosecution plus a fine of at least $500 and, in the discretion of the sentencing authority, of not more than $2,000.
(b) Payment.--
An agency shall not make a payment on behalf of or reimburse a member of an agency for a fine or cost resulting from the member's violation of this section.
(July 7, 2011, P.L.270, No.56, eff. 60 days)
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 714.1 - Attorney fees

§ 714.1. Attorney fees.
If the court determines that an agency willfully or with wanton disregard violated a provision of this chapter, in whole or in part, the court shall award the prevailing party reasonable attorney fees and costs of litigation or an appropriate portion of the fees and costs. If the court finds that the legal challenge was of a frivolous nature or was brought with no substantial justification, the court shall award the prevailing party reasonable attorney fees and costs of litigation or an appropriate portion of the fees and costs.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 715 - Jurisdiction and venue of judicial proceedings

§ 715. Jurisdiction and venue of judicial proceedings.
The Commonwealth Court shall have original jurisdiction of actions involving State agencies and the courts of common pleas shall have original jurisdiction of actions involving other agencies to render declaratory judgments or to enforce this chapter by injunction or other remedy deemed appropriate by the court. The action may be brought by any person where the agency whose act is complained of is located or where the act complained of occurred.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 7 - Open Meetings › Section 716 - Confidentiality

§ 716. Confidentiality.
All acts and parts of acts are repealed insofar as they are inconsistent with this chapter, excepting those statutes which specifically provide for the confidentiality of information. Those deliberations or official actions which, if conducted in public, would violate a lawful privilege or lead to the disclosure of information or confidentiality protected by law, including matter related to the investigation of possible or certain violations of the law and quasi-judicial deliberations, shall not fall within the scope of this chapter.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 11 - Ethics Standards and Financial Disclosure › Extra - Chapter Notes

Enactment.
Chapter 11 was added October 15, 1998, P.L.729, No.93, effective in 60 days.
Cross References.
Chapter 11 is referred to in sections 13A05, 13A09 of this title; section 1201.1 of
            Title 4 (Amusements); sections 10A05, 1404 of Title 8 (Boroughs and Incorporated Towns); sections 11208, 11912 of Title 11 (Cities);
            section 9537 of Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses); section 9302 of Title 40 (Insurance);
            section 5508.3 of Title 53 (Municipalities Generally); sections 1511, 6017, 6111 of
            Title 64 (Public Authorities and Quasi-Public Corporations); section 2115 of Title
            68 (Real and Personal Property); section 5958 of Title 71 (State Government); sections
            8205, 9103 of Title 74 (Transportation).
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 11 - Ethics Standards and Financial Disclosure › Section 1101.1 - Purpose

§ 1101.1. Purpose.
(a) Declarations.--
The Legislature hereby declares that public office is a public trust and that any effort to realize personal financial gain through public office other than compensation provided by law is a violation of that trust. In order to strengthen the faith and confidence of the people of this Commonwealth in their government, the Legislature further declares that the people have a right to be assured that the financial interests of holders of or nominees or candidates for public office do not conflict with the public trust. Because public confidence in government can best be sustained by assuring the people of the impartiality and honesty of public officials, this chapter shall be liberally construed to promote complete financial disclosure as specified in this chapter. Furthermore, it is recognized that clear guidelines are needed in order to guide public officials and employees in their actions. Thus, the General Assembly by this chapter intends to define as clearly as possible those areas which represent conflict with the public trust.
(b) Recognition.--
It is recognized that many public officials, including most local officials and members of the General Assembly, are citizen-officials who bring to their public office the knowledge and concerns of ordinary citizens and taxpayers. They should not be discouraged from maintaining their contacts with their community through their occupations and professions. Thus, in order to foster maximum compliance with its terms, this chapter shall be administered in a manner that emphasizes guidance to public officials and public employees regarding the ethical standards established by this chapter.
(c) Legislative intent.--
It is the intent of the General Assembly that this chapter be administered by an independent commission composed of members who are cognizant of the responsibilities and burdens of public officials and employees and who have demonstrated an interest in promoting public confidence in government.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 11 - Ethics Standards and Financial Disclosure › Section 1110 - Wrongful use of chapter

§ 1110. Wrongful use of chapter.
(a) Liability.--
A person who signs a complaint alleging a violation of this chapter against another is subject to liability for wrongful use of this chapter if:
(1) the complaint was frivolous, as defined by this chapter, or without probable cause and made primarily for a purpose other than that of reporting a violation of this chapter; or
(2) he publicly disclosed or caused to be disclosed that a complaint against a person had been filed with the commission.
(b) Probable cause.--
A person who signs a complaint alleging a violation of this chapter has probable cause for doing so if he reasonably believes in the existence of the facts upon which the claim is based and either:
(1) reasonably believes that under those facts the complaint may be valid under this chapter; or
(2) believes to this effect in reliance upon the advice of counsel, sought in good faith and given after full disclosure of all relevant facts within his knowledge and information.
(c) Commission procedures.--
When the commission determines that a complainant has violated the provisions set forth in subsection (a), the commission, upon receiving a written request from the subject of the complaint, shall provide the name and address of the complainant to said subject. If the commission determines that a complainant has not violated the provisions of subsection (a), the commission shall notify the subject accordingly. The subject shall have the right to appeal the commission's determination, and the commission shall schedule an appeal hearing. The subject shall show cause why the complainant violated the provisions of this section. If the commission grants the appeal, the commission shall immediately release the complainant's name and address to the subject. If the commission denies the appeal, it shall present evidence why the complainant's name and address shall not be released.
(d) Damages.--
When the essential elements of an action brought pursuant to this section have been established, the plaintiff is entitled to recover for the following:
(1) The harm to his reputation by a defamatory matter alleged as the basis of the proceeding.
(2) The expenses, including any reasonable attorney fees, that he has reasonably incurred in proceedings before the commission.
(3) Any specific pecuniary loss that has resulted from the proceedings.
(4) Any emotional distress that has been caused by the proceedings.
(5) Any punitive damages according to law in appropriate cases.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 11 - Ethics Standards and Financial Disclosure › Section 1112 - Conflict of law

§ 1112. Conflict of law.
Except as otherwise provided in Chapter 13 (relating to lobby regulation and disclosure), if the provisions of this chapter conflict with any other statute, ordinance, regulation or rule, the provisions of this chapter shall control.
References in Text.
Chapter 13, referred to in this section, was deleted by the act of November 1, 2006 (P.L.1213, No.134). The subject matter is now contained in Chapter 13A.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 11 - Ethics Standards and Financial Disclosure › Section 1113 - Severability

§ 1113. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this chapter and the application of such provisions to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
2023 Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes › Title 65 - PUBLIC OFFICERS › Chapter 13 - Lobby Regulation and Disclosure (Deleted by amendment) › Section 1301 - 1311 - (Deleted by amendment)

2006 Deletion.
Chapter 13 (§§ 1301 - 1311) was added October 15, 1998, P.L.729, No.93, and deleted by amendment November 1, 2006, P.L.1213, No.134, effective January 1, 2007. The subject matter is now contained in Chapter 13A of this title.