Bill > HB491

This bill amends Pennsylvania law to establish concurrent jurisdiction between state courts and federal courts for juvenile cases occurring on United States Department of Defense military installations. Specifically, the bill allows Pennsylvania state courts to have jurisdiction over juvenile cases involving federal law violations on military bases under two key conditions: first, when a federal court (or an authorized federal attorney like a U.S. Attorney or Judge Advocate General) waives exclusive jurisdiction, and second, when the federal law violation also constitutes a crime under Pennsylvania state law. This provision essentially creates a legal pathway for state courts to handle juvenile cases that would traditionally fall under exclusive federal jurisdiction, providing more flexibility in prosecuting juvenile offenses committed on military installations. The bill would take effect immediately upon enactment, allowing for prompt implementation of the new jurisdictional provisions.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=491