The bill amends the Administrative Code of 1929 to establish provisions for essential service payments during a budget impasse in Pennsylvania. It introduces a new section, Section 626, which outlines the process for certifying and appropriating funds for essential services if the General Appropriation Act is not enacted by July 1 of any fiscal year. The Secretary of the Budget, in consultation with relevant department secretaries, will certify the line items and amounts paid for essential services from the previous fiscal year, which will then be appropriated from the General Fund to the respective departments. Additionally, departments providing essential services can submit requisitions for payments to organizations, ensuring that the amounts do not exceed those paid in the prior year.

The bill also stipulates that any appropriations made under this new section will lapse once the General Appropriation Act is enacted. It mandates the Secretary of the Budget to expedite payments and submit an annual report to the Appropriations Committees of both the Senate and House, detailing essential services deemed necessary for public health and safety during potential budget impasses. The definitions of "essential service" and "other essential services" are provided, specifying the types of services that qualify for funding during such impasses. This legislative change aims to ensure continuity of critical services even in the absence of an approved budget.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1924 (Jun 16, 2025): P.L.177, No.175