Designating March 25, 2026, as "Prince Hall Mason Day at the Capitol" in Pennsylvania in recognition of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
Impact
If passed, this bill would establish an official commemorative day that highlights the historical significance of the Prince Hall Masons. Such recognition could foster greater awareness about the organization’s contributions to civil rights and social progress. Additionally, it may encourage local communities to celebrate and educate others about the impact of Prince Hall Masons within the context of Pennsylvania’s broader historical narrative.
Summary
HR424 is a legislative proposal aimed at officially designating March 25, 2026, as 'Prince Hall Mason Day at the Capitol' in Pennsylvania. This bill acknowledges and honors the contributions of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which has played a significant role in the history and culture of African American communities across the state. The bill reflects an effort to recognize the importance of Prince Hall Masons and their historical legacy in fostering community engagement and social justice.
Contention
While HR424 seems primarily ceremonial, there may be differing perspectives regarding the importance of dedicating state days. Some community leaders and members of the Prince Hall Masons have expressed support for such recognitions, seeing them as vital in promoting cultural history. Conversely, some lawmakers may question the need for specific commemorative days, arguing that many existing celebrations already address similar historical narratives.
Taxation, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Alabama and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge F. and A.M. of Alabama, exempt from sales, county and municipal fees and taxes
Commending the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York upon the occasion of hosting its 181st Annual Grand Lodge Divine Service on May 3, 2026
Commending the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York upon the occasion of hosting its 2026 Annual Vincent E. Best Mid-Year Assembly January 23-25, 2026
Commending Epiphany Lodge No. 121 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York upon the occasion of hosting its Mother's Day of Service on May 16, 2026
commending the Eureka Grand Chapter, P.H.O.E.S, and the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York, upon the occasion of hosting the Red and White Luncheon
Providing for the Pennsylvania Amber Alert System, the Missing Endangered Person Advisory System and the Green Alert System and for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police; assessing costs; providing for immunity and penalties; and making a repeal.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and establish an advisory committee to determine the impact on Pennsylvania taxpayers of Pennsylvania State Police full or partial police services for municipalities that do not maintain full police coverage.
Authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority certain lands situate in the City of Harrisburg, Dauphin County; authorizing the transfer of an easement interest in lands for a portion of the Project 70 lands owned by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, known as Lake Winola Access, in Overfield Township, Wyoming County, to the Department of Transportation; authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, to convey to Tioga County a tract of land, and to accept a tract of land from Tioga County, both tracts being located in Charleston Township, Tioga County; and authorizing the Department of General Services, on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with the approval of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Governor, to grant and convey to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, solely for the use of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, a parcel in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, in exchange for a tract partly in Nesquehoning Borough and partly in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, to be conveyed to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, acting by and through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and added to Lehigh Gorge State Park.