PENNSYLVANIA — Governor Josh Shapiro signed four bills into law on Wednesday, November 1, 2023. The new laws, HB 156, HB 157, HB 735, and SB 694, promise to bring about changes in various sectors, including agriculture, budget procedures, flood insurance, child support enforcement, and fireworks regulation.
HB 156: Fine-Tuning Fertilizer Application
HB 156 amends Title 3 (Agriculture) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically regarding fertilizer. The new law provides further clarity on definitions related to fertilizers and their application to turf. This amendment, now known as Act No. 20 of 2023, aims to improve agricultural practices and environmental stewardship across the state.
HB 157: Enhancing the Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark
Next is HB 157, which brings changes to the Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark within Title 3 (Agriculture) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The bill provides more robust definitions, outlines licensee qualifications, and details the duties and authority of the department. It also delves into the trademark license agreement, application and licensure process, costs, and the Pennsylvania Preferred® Trademark Licensing Fund. The bill repeals certain provisions relating to definitions and further provides for qualified veterans and qualified veteran business entities. Now recognized as Act No. 21 of 2023, it aims to strengthen the Pennsylvania Preferred® brand and support local businesses.
HB 735: Addressing Budget Procedures, Flood Insurance, and Child Support Enforcement
HB 735 amends The Administrative Code of 1929, focusing on Commonwealth budget procedures. It provides more explicit definitions and establishes the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force. In the realm of human services, it addresses child support enforcement fees. It also touches on judicial administration, providing for a surcharge and fee. Now known as Act No. 22 of 2023, it is expected to improve budgetary procedures, help residents afford flood insurance, and streamline child support enforcement.
SB 694: Regulating Fireworks Sales and Attorney General Roles
Lastly, SB 694 amends Title 3 (Agriculture) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes in relation to fireworks. The bill provides more precise definitions, stipulates sales locations, and outlines the role of the Attorney General. Now Act No. 23 of 2023, this law is set to bring about safer and more regulated use of fireworks across the state.
These new laws aim to enhance the quality of life for Pennsylvanians by improving agricultural practices, strengthening local brands, refining budget procedures, easing flood insurance burdens, enforcing child support, and regulating fireworks use.
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