Bill > SB1081

This bill amends Pennsylvania's public ethics laws to establish more stringent rules around gifts and financial disclosures for public officials, employees, nominees, and candidates. The bill introduces a comprehensive gift ban that generally prohibits public officials from receiving gifts valued over $50 from any single person in a calendar year, with numerous specific exceptions. These exceptions include gifts from family members, gifts related to personal relationships, certain professional training, food and beverages at public events, items of minimal economic value, awards and prizes, and gifts from governmental bodies or charitable organizations. The bill also modifies financial disclosure requirements, lowering the threshold for reporting gifts from $250 to $50 and requiring more detailed reporting of honorariums, awards, and reimbursed expenses. The changes aim to increase transparency and prevent potential conflicts of interest by creating clearer guidelines about what types of gifts and benefits public officials can accept. Key definitions are expanded, including broadening the definition of "person" and "lobbyist" to capture a wider range of potential interactions. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving public officials and organizations time to adjust to the new standards.

Government Affairs

https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/sb1081