House Resolution No. ___, introduced by Representatives Briggs and Hanbidge on October 16, 2026, directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of security at magisterial district courts in Pennsylvania. This study aims to update previous findings and recommendations, assess current security conditions and practices, and establish minimum security standards for implementation. The resolution highlights the importance of magisterial district courts as the first point of contact for many residents with the judicial system and acknowledges the varying levels of security across different facilities, which can lead to significant risks for judges, court employees, and the public.

The resolution outlines specific tasks for the Joint State Government Commission, including compiling a county-by-county inventory of security measures, analyzing incident data, identifying vulnerabilities, and evaluating compliance with existing security guidelines. An advisory committee will be established to assist with the study, comprising representatives from various judicial and law enforcement organizations, as well as experts in court security. The Commission is required to issue a report by December 31, 2027, detailing its findings, recommendations for minimum security standards, estimated costs, and necessary legislative or policy changes, which will be shared with key stakeholders, including the Governor and judiciary leaders.