Bill > SB125

This bill proposes two integrated amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution: first, it modifies the language regarding change of venue by removing the word "The" from the existing text, which essentially maintains the current provision that courts have the power to change venue in civil and criminal cases as provided by law. Second, the bill expands the Supreme Court's powers in judicial administration by allowing the General Assembly to not only prescribe how child victims or witnesses can provide testimony in criminal proceedings (which was already permitted), but also to explicitly establish venue in civil cases. The bill outlines a specific procedural process for constitutional amendments, which requires the Secretary of the Commonwealth to advertise the proposed changes after both the first and second passages by the General Assembly, and then submit the amendments to voters as a single ballot question at an eligible election. This approach follows the standard constitutional amendment process in Pennsylvania, which requires two separate legislative approvals and subsequent voter ratification.

Government Affairs

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sb125