Bill > SB915

This bill amends Pennsylvania's riot law to provide more detailed definitions and penalties for riot-related offenses. Specifically, the bill maintains the existing provision that participating in a riot with two or more people is a third-degree felony, especially when the intent is to commit another crime, prevent official action, or involves the use or planned use of a weapon. The bill introduces new provisions that specifically address riot organization, making it a third-degree felony to knowingly organize, control, or finance a riot involving two or more people. Importantly, if such an organized riot leads to an individual's death, the organizer can be charged with a first-degree felony. The bill also provides clear definitions for key terms like "controls" (directing or coordinating a riot), "finances" (contributing significant money or materials to a riot), and "organizes" (arranging or planning a riot). These changes appear aimed at providing law enforcement and prosecutors with more precise legal tools to address serious public disorder situations, with escalating penalties based on the severity and consequences of the riot.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=915