HARRISBURG, PA — A significant step toward strengthening accountability among mandated reporters was taken on Tuesday as the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee unanimously approved House Bill 355. Sponsored by State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, the bill proposes sentencing enhancements for mandated reporters convicted of sexual assault, aiming to address violations of the public trust by individuals in positions of authority.
Under the legislation, courts would be able to assign stricter penalties in sexual assault cases where the defendant is a mandated reporter. Individuals categorized as mandated reporters are legally required to report suspected instances of child abuse or neglect. This group includes professions such as educators, health care providers, child care workers, law enforcement officers, clergy, and social service professionals.
Explaining the motivation behind the proposal, Rep. Pielli emphasized the moral responsibility that accompanies these roles. “We tell our children not to trust strangers. We tell our children what they should do when a stranger approaches them. But we also tell our children that you CAN trust your teacher. You CAN trust a police officer,” said Pielli. “How can we allow those who break that sacred trust to those they’re supposed to serve, to their community, continue to benefit from institutional leniencies they do not deserve? This legislation, as amended, allowing for sentencing enhancements for a person in a position of authority is a step in the right direction.”
The effort to pass this bill has garnered bipartisan support, demonstrating its importance across party lines. Pielli praised his co-prime sponsor, State Rep. Joe D’Orsie, R-York, who authored the bill in a previous session, for his dedication to pushing the legislation forward. Describing the bipartisan collaboration, Pielli remarked, “It was [Rep. D’Orsie’s] commitment, his caring, and his perseverance that enabled this bill to go forward.”
The human impact of the bill was underscored by Rep. Pielli’s testimony about Grace, a survivor who courageously shared her story with him and Rep. D’Orsie. Her experience, Pielli noted, served as a poignant reminder of the need to address these injustices and support victims.
House Bill 355 aims to send a clear message that any betrayal of trust by individuals entrusted with the safety and welfare of others will not go unchecked. It is a legal measure seeking to ensure those in authority are held to a higher standard of accountability, reinforcing the ethical foundation of professions charged with protecting communities.
The legislation now advances to the full House for debate and consideration. If enacted, it could mark a decisive move toward strengthening protections for vulnerable individuals and reinforcing the state’s commitment to justice.
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