Luzerne Times

The Senate Judiciary Committee, led by Chairwoman Sen. Lisa Baker, has approved several important pieces of legislation aimed at addressing various issues in Pennsylvania. The committee's actions include approving bills to increase fines for littering, protect the dignity of incarcerated women, and repudiate unlawful restrictive deed covenants.

One of the approved bills focuses on increasing fines for littering, or scattering rubbish. Sen. Baker expressed her concern over the persistent problem of illegal trash disposal, stating, "Despite widespread volunteer and paid efforts to cleanup highways and neighborhoods, we remain plagued by individuals who persist in carelessly disposing of trash illegally. This adds to pollution problems, public health and safety problems, and diminishes property values." The bill aims to give courts more discretion in sentencing offenders appropriately.

The committee also passed a bill that aims to provide dignity to pregnant and postpartum incarcerated women and juvenile detainees. This bill restricts the use of restraints and restrictive housing for these individuals and ensures access to feminine hygiene products free of cost. Sen. Baker emphasized the importance of treating women in the criminal justice system with appropriate care and dignity, stating, "There is no justification for failing to treat women with appropriate care and dignity, irrespective of the circumstances that led to their incarceration." This legislation aligns with a law signed by former President Trump for federal prisons and seeks to extend these protections at the state and local levels.

Another significant bill approved by the committee addresses the issue of unlawful restrictive deed covenants. This bill establishes a procedure for property owners and homeowners associations to strike such language from recording instruments without cost. Sen. Baker highlighted the need to eradicate these outdated and discriminatory covenants, stating, "Such covenants are a blatant barrier to equality and opportunity and cannot be tolerated." This legislation aims to remove these barriers and promote equal rights for all residents.

In addition to these bills, the committee has advanced the nomination of Harris Gubernick for reappointment to the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. Gubernick, who has been a member of the panel since 2011 and previously served as the director of corrections for Bucks County, has been recognized for his expertise and dedication to the criminal justice system.

The approved bills and the nomination of Harris Gubernick will now move to the full Senate for consideration. The actions taken by the Senate Judiciary Committee, under the leadership of Sen. Lisa Baker, demonstrate their commitment to addressing pressing issues and advancing policies that promote fairness and justice in Pennsylvania.

Contact:

Cara Laudenslager

Click this link to access more information: https://www.senatorbaker.com/2023/12/12/baker-senate-judiciary-committee-approves-bills-advances-board-of-pardons-nomination/