This bill amends Titles 35 (Health and Safety) and 53 (Municipalities Generally) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the authority of political subdivisions during disaster emergencies. It allows local governing bodies to declare a disaster emergency and grants mayors or chief executive officers the power to do so, subject to ratification. The duration of such declarations is modified to a maximum of 21 days, with subsequent renewals also limited to 21 days, requiring a resolution from the governing body. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for conducting meetings via authorized telecommunications devices during emergencies, eliminating the need for physical presence to establish a quorum.

The bill also includes several deletions and insertions to clarify definitions and procedures related to emergency meetings and interim successors for local offices. It repeals outdated provisions regarding enabling authority for emergency interim successors and modifies the declaration of policy to focus on ensuring continuity of government during disasters. The definitions of "disaster emergency" are updated to align with the new provisions, and the bill emphasizes the importance of public participation and advance notice for meetings conducted through telecommunications. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline governance and maintain effective operations during emergencies.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2184 (Aug 04, 2025): 35-7501(b)