Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1293

Introduced
4/23/25  

Caption

Further providing for findings and declaration of policy, for definitions, for formation of housing authorities, for powers of an authority and for establishment of rentals and selection of tenants.

Impact

The proposed updates in HB 1293 would empower housing authorities to actively engage in the demolition of slums and the construction of new residential units, prioritizing those in need. It establishes criteria for forming new housing authorities based on the presence of unsafe or unsanitary dwellings and requires municipalities to demonstrate a lack of sufficient housing for low and moderate-income individuals. Additionally, the bill mandates that rental prices remain within the financial reach of targeted income groups, thereby ensuring that the developments serve their intended purpose. This legislative move is positioned to lessen the financial burden on local governments and create a more supportive infrastructure for affordable housing.

Summary

House Bill 1293 aims to amend the Housing Authorities Law by enhancing the powers and responsibilities of housing authorities within Pennsylvania. The bill reflects a significant focus on addressing the pervasive issue of unsafe, unsanitary, and inadequate housing, particularly for individuals of low and moderate income. It recognizes that private industry has been unable to resolve these housing crises and proposes state intervention through housing authorities to facilitate necessary improvements and the provision of adequate housing options. The bill emphasizes that such housing projects are essential for public welfare and the overall stability of communities, highlighting the necessity of clear governmental policies to effectively tackle homelessness and substandard living conditions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1293 is largely positive among supporters who view it as a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing housing crisis in the state. Advocates argue that increasing state investment in housing authorities will lead to safer communities and improved living conditions. However, there may be concerns about funding and the effectiveness of housing authorities to manage such projects. Opponents may argue that while the intentions are noble, there needs to be careful coordination and transparency to ensure that the interventions are effective and do not lead to inefficiencies or misallocation of resources.

Contention

Despite the bill's supportive framework, potential points of contention could arise regarding the operational autonomy of housing authorities and the balance between state control and local governance. Critics may worry that increased powers for the state could limit local governments' ability to address specific community needs independently. There might also be debates about the fiscal implications of state funding for these housing projects and whether the projected outcomes justify the expenses involved. Furthermore, ensuring that the housing authorities effectively reach the intended demographic without overlooking the variety of socio-economic factors at play will be a central discussion point as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB218

Further providing for establishment of rentals and selection of tenants and for veteran preferences.

PA SB737

In municipal authorities, further providing for definitions, providing for public safety authorities and further providing for purposes and powers.

PA HB822

Further providing for powers of an authority.

PA HB1308

Providing for storm water management; and, in municipal authorities, further providing for definitions and for purposes and powers.

PA HB441

Further providing for legislative finding and declaration of policy and for definitions; and providing for wild native terrestrial invertebrate management.

PA SB542

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for speed timing devices; and, in powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

PA HB2103

Further providing for the title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

PA HB91

County housing authorities, further provides for the powers of authorities and exempts from taxes

PA HB300

Further providing for the title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

PA HB2397

In powers of department and local authorities, further providing for specific powers of department and local authorities.

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PA HB703

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PA SB189

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PA HB2430

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PA HB1966

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA SB881

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.