Luzerne Times

The two-year legislative session concluded with significant progress in justice system reforms and community protections, according to Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20). Seventeen bills were enacted into law, with others set for future consideration. Baker attributed this success to community consultation, bipartisan efforts, and practical negotiations.

"Issues in the arena of criminal justice reform face differing perspectives from emotional, philosophical and financial standpoints. It is easy to point out problems and attack the system," Baker stated. "It takes a great deal of effort to find a balance between addressing community concerns, giving those in the judiciary and law enforcement community the tools and latitude needed to pursue justice, and convincing taxpayers that the rising investment in criminal justice especially is showing results in community safety."

Key legislative achievements include strengthening guardianship systems through Act 61 of 2023, which aims to protect vulnerable adults from abuse by enhancing accountability measures. Act 16 of 2024 addresses human trafficking by extending Megan’s Law requirements to traffickers.

Baker emphasized reforms in probation and clean slate laws: "Lengthy sentences, when disproportionate to the severity of the offenses, impose excessive costs on taxpayers. It is possible to hold individuals accountable and lessen sentences for non-violent crimes without sacrificing community safety." Act 44 of 2023 introduces mandatory probation review conferences for early termination based on good conduct. Act 36 of 2023 expands Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate law by sealing nonviolent felony convictions.

In response to child custody concerns highlighted by Kayden Mancuso's tragic case, Act 8 of 2024 strengthens child custody laws by prioritizing children's safety during disputes.

Juvenile justice reforms include Acts 107 and 108 of 2024, which require regular disposition reviews and simplify record expungement processes. "These changes are designed to incorporate established methods for raising youth outcomes and addressing significant gaps in current practices," Baker noted.

Act 127 of 2024 extends PA One Call through 2031, ensuring safe management of underground utility lines. Trust law modifications under Acts 64 of both years aim to make Pennsylvania more competitive by streamlining processes.

Professional license updates are addressed through Acts 83 and 84 of 2024 for athletic trainers, aligning their practice scope with modern standards. Additionally, Act 32 of 2024 modernizes licensure for engineers and related professions.

"This session has laid the groundwork for meaningful progress, but our work is far from over," said Baker. "As we look ahead to the next legislative session, I remain committed to reforms that improve accountability and advancing policies to ensure our communities are safer, stronger and more prosperous for generations to come."