The House Resolution introduced by Representatives Stambaugh, Kauffman, Hamm, Cooper, Borowicz, Grove, Cutler, Shaffer, and Gillen on February 12, 2025, directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a comprehensive study on the feasibility of transitioning the Pennsylvania General Assembly from a full-time to a part-time legislature. This initiative arises from the recognition that Pennsylvania is one of only ten states with a full-time legislature, and it aims to explore the potential benefits of adopting a part-time model, which is common among many states of similar size. The resolution highlights the need for a formal study to inform lawmakers as they consider this significant change, especially in light of previous bipartisan efforts to reduce the size of the General Assembly.

The study mandated by the resolution will encompass a thorough review of all 49 other state legislatures, examining factors such as their legislative status (full-time or part-time), session lengths, composition sizes, representation ratios, legislator salaries, instances of political corruption, and overall costs. Additionally, it will provide a historical overview of the General Assembly's status, detail the constitutional amendment process in Pennsylvania, and outline key considerations for any legislative changes. The Legislative Budget and Finance Committee is tasked with utilizing existing studies and resources to complete this analysis and is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to all General Assembly members within 18 months of the resolution's adoption.