Bill > SB764

This bill modifies Pennsylvania law regarding municipal consolidation and merger referenda by making several key changes. The bill allows for new referenda even within the standard five-year moratorium if the proposed consolidation involves contiguous municipalities and differs from previous unsuccessful attempts, or if a court orders a new referendum. It introduces a new provision that allows a municipal governing body to petition a court to suspend a consolidation or merger process if they can provide substantial evidence of previously undisclosed fraud, error, or material financial loss that occurred before the initial referendum. If the court finds the evidence compelling, it can order a new referendum, which will automatically suspend the adoption or implementation of the original consolidation or merger agreement until the new referendum is approved. The bill also specifies that these new provisions will apply to any referendum held on or after November 1, 2021, and will take effect 60 days after enactment. These changes are designed to provide additional safeguards and flexibility in the municipal consolidation process, allowing for more thorough review and potential correction of referendum outcomes.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=764