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Krueger bill aims to prohibit wildlife trafficking in PA

(Jun 04, 2025)

H.B. 994, which would prohibit the trade of animal parts from protected species throughout Pennsylvania. The legislation was adopted by the House Judiciary Committee on a bipartisan vote of 25-1. Read more

 

Briggs, Kerwin introduce bipartisan bill to help victims of violent crime

(Jun 03, 2025)

HARRISBURG, June 2 – In a bipartisan effort to increase public safety and justice for victims of violent crime, state Reps. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, and Joe Kerwin, R-Dauphin, introduced legislation aimed at improving how violent crimes are solved across Pennsylvania. Known as the Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Act, H.B. 1511 would create a new grant program through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to provide law enforcement with the critical tools and resources needed to improve clearance rates for homicides and other serious offenses. “Too many violent crimes in Pennsylvania go unsolved, leaving victims and families without closure and communities without justice,” said Briggs, the majority chair of the House Judiciary Committee. “Our legislation will help ensure law enforcement agencies—especially at the local level—have what they need to investigate and solve these cases.” Currently, more than a quarter of homicides in Pennsylvania remain unsolved, and only about one-third of other major crimes, including robbery and burglary, are cleared. The VICTIM Act would address these gaps by enabling police departments to apply for funding to: Hire and retain detectives and investigators. Invest in evidence-analysis technology. Comply with reporting and program accountability requirements. The legislation also includes Read more

 

Briggs announces House Judiciary Committee approval of bills to support vulnerable Pennsylvanians, strengthen public safety

(Jun 02, 2025)

HARRISBURG, June 2 – State Rep. Tim Briggs, majority chair of the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee, announced today that six bills have been approved by the committee and sent to the full House for further consideration. These measures aim to increase access to justice, protect vulnerable populations, enhance public safety, and support crime victims across the Commonwealth. “These bills reflect the Judiciary Committee’s ongoing commitment to fairness, protection and public safety,” Briggs said. “From improving legal aid access to helping law enforcement solve violent crimes, we are taking meaningful steps to strengthen our justice system.” The following bills were approved: House Bill 331 (Briggs): Expands existing civil legal aid funding by allowing an existing $2 court filing fee—currently excluded from traffic citations—to be applied to those citations, generating stable revenue for legal services without raising costs. House Bill 808 (Rep. Roman Kozak): Eliminates the statute of limitations for certain violent crimes—such as rape and assault—committed against nonverbal care-dependent adults, ensuring justice is never out of reach for these vulnerable individuals. House Bill 1412 (Reps. Melissa Shusterman and Liz Hanbidge): Requires a material change in circumstances to request a child custody modification, while still allowing Read more

 

PA House Judiciary Committee approves four measures

(May 14, 2025)

HARRISBURG, May 14 – The Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee, chaired by state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery), advanced bills today aimed at strengthening public safety, supporting working families, and protecting vulnerable populations across the Commonwealth. The legislation addresses compassionate release for seriously ill incarcerated individuals, parental rights, child exploitation laws and oversight of illicit vapor products. “Today’s committee action reflects our commitment to practical, thoughtful and bipartisan solutions that respond to real needs in our communities,” Briggs said. “These bills tackle everything from criminal justice reform to public health and safety, and I’m proud to move them forward with support from both sides of the aisle.” House Bill 150 , sponsored by state Reps. Rick Krajewski, D-Phila., and Torren Ecker, R-Adams/Cumberland, would reform Pennsylvania’s current compassionate release program. It would establish an expanded process for seriously ill incarcerated individuals to petition the court for sentence modification modeled after the federal First Step Act. The bill includes strong public safety measures and would relieve strain on state correctional medical resources. House Bill 526 , introduced by state Rep. Jennifer O’Mara, D-Delaware, would update Pennsylvania’s law that protects parents who breastfeed in public by making it clear Read more

 

Hanbidge and Briggs legislation streamlining child custody determination factors passes House

(May 06, 2025)

Legislation introduced by state Reps. Liz Hanbidge and Tim Briggs, both D-Montgomery, to clarify Pennsylvania’s overly complex child custody process passed the House today. Read more

 

House Judiciary Committee approves legislation to help survivors of childhood sexual abuse

(May 06, 2025)

HARRISBURG, May 6 – State Rep. Tim Briggs, Majority, chair of the House Judiciary Committee, announced that today the committee voted to approve critical legislation introduced by state Rep. Nathan Davidson that would open a long-awaited path to justice for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. “These bills are about fairness, healing and restoring the rights of people who were silenced for far too long,” Briggs said. “We owe survivors the chance to be heard in a court of law, no matter how much time has passed.” The committee’s action followed a productive hearing held on Monday, where advocates and legal experts offered powerful testimony in support of the legislation. Their voices helped reinforce the urgent need for these long-overdue reforms. Both bills now advance to the full House for further consideration. H.B. 462 : This legislation would provide a statutory two-year window during which survivors of childhood sexual abuse could file previously time-barred civil claims. It also would waive sovereign and governmental immunity retroactively, allowing survivors to pursue justice against state and local agencies. H.B. 464 : This joint resolution would amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to establish a two-year window for survivors to bring forward civil claims that were previously blocked due to expired statutes of limitations. These proposals follow Read more

 

House Judiciary Committee approves five measures

(May 05, 2025)

HARRISBURG, May 5 – State Rep. Tim Briggs, majority chair of the House Judiciary Committee, announced today that the committee approved a package of justice-focused bills. These bills, which aim to modernize the state’s approach to incarceration, supervision and rehabilitation, now move to the full House for consideration. “These bills reflect a growing, bipartisan understanding that smart justice means safer communities, more efficient systems, and better outcomes for everyone involved,” Briggs said. “I’m proud that our committee is moving forward with meaningful legislation to support rehabilitation, treatment and public safety.” The approved legislation is as follows: House Bill 282 (Sponsored by Briggs): This bill ensures individuals leaving incarceration have access to substance use disorder treatment and case management before release. The program would be optional for counties and designed to reduce relapse and recidivism during reentry. "Far too many people reenter our communities without the support needed to stay on the path to recovery," Briggs said. "This bill makes sure they aren’t starting from scratch on day one. It’s about giving people the tools to succeed—and making our communities safer in the process. “House Bill 282 is rooted in compassion and common sense. We know the first days after release are the most Read more

 

Members of PA House Southeast Delegation respond to SEPTA's proposed service cuts & rate hikes

(Apr 10, 2025)

Pennsylvania House lawmakers who represent Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties are expressing concern in response to the budget proposal SEPTA released today that would make drastic service cuts and fare increases to address its budget deficit. Read more

 

An Open Letter to the Lawyers and Law Firms the Trump Administration Seeks to Silence

(Apr 02, 2025)

We, the undersigned lawyer-legislators of the Pennsylvania state House of Representatives, are appalled though tragically not surprised by President Trump's latest attack on the rule of law. As outlined in the Presidential Memorandum of March 22, 2025, SUBJECT: Preventing Abuses of the Legal System and the Federal Court, the President instructed the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to weaponize the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, the Rules of Professional Conduct, and any other regulations governing attorney conduct and discipline to silence the zealous advocacy of lawyers and law firms across the nation. We will not allow the Trump Administration’s attempt with this memorandum to chill legal representation that inconveniences its efforts to undermine the Constitution, gut essential programs, attack vulnerable groups and individuals, and otherwise subvert the rule of law to go unchallenged. Read more

 

Shred Event this Sunday

(Apr 01, 2025)

Shred Event this Sunday Read more

 

Bipartisan bills get reported out of PA House Judiciary Committee

(Mar 25, 2025)

HARRISBURG, March 25 – State Rep. Tim Briggs, chairman of the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee, announced the successful reporting out of several important bipartisan bills aimed at improving the lives of Pennsylvanians and strengthening public safety. These legislative measures address a range of issues, from providing financial relief for grieving families to holding individuals in positions of power accountable for serious crimes, to supporting law enforcement and incentivizing the donation of safe food. “These bills reflect our commitment to making meaningful changes that protect Pennsylvania families, support law enforcement, and ensure a fairer, safer society for everyone,” Briggs said. “By working together across party lines, we can pass legislation that makes a real difference for our communities.” House Bill 167 : Current law allows prioritized relatives to access up to $10,000 from a deceased person’s bank or credit union account without probate, provided funeral expenses are settled. This legislation proposes raising this limit to $20,000, making it easier for families to access needed funds during an incredibly difficult time. This change aims to reduce both the financial and emotional burdens on families and help them avoid costly probate proceedings. House Bill 355 : Provides a sentencing enhancement for courts to consider in sexual assault cases where the Read more

 

Helping SEPTA help you get to work

(Feb 27, 2025)

I am writing to share some important updates about the current budget discussions, with a focus on the vital issue of mass transit funding and its impact on our legislative district. Read more

 

Briggs announces funding for Lower Merion traffic light project

(Feb 27, 2025)

HARRISBURG, FEB. 27 – State Rep. Tim Briggs announced Lower Merion Township will receive a $630,921 grant for critical traffic signal modernization and pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Lancaster Avenue (Route 30) and Church Road. The funding comes as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Automated Red-Light Enforcement program, which awarded a total of $20.4 million to 31 municipalities across the state. “I am excited to see Lower Merion Township receive this significant investment in traffic safety,” said Briggs, D-Montgomery. “This grant will go a long way toward improving pedestrian safety and modernizing traffic signals, helping to reduce congestion and make our roads safer for everyone. I commend PennDOT and the Shapiro administration for their commitment to improving infrastructure and keeping our communities connected.” The project will focus on enhancing traffic flow and pedestrian safety at one of the township's busiest intersections. With more people commuting, walking, and driving through the area, these improvements will ensure a safer, more efficient experience for all road users. The ARLE program, which funds improvements at signalized intersections, is primarily supported by fines from red-light violations at 38 intersections currently operational in the commonwealth. The program is designed to reduce congestion, enhance mobility, and improve safety Read more

 

Route 202 update

(Feb 07, 2025)

I’m writing to bring your attention to the ongoing sinkhole remediation project on U.S. 202 (Dekalb Pike) in Upper Merion Township. This PennDOT project is a long-term solution to the sinkhole problems that have consistently affected the area. Starting Monday, February 24, PennDOT will be closing northbound U.S. 202 between Henderson Road and Saulin Boulevard/Prince Frederick Boulevard 24/7 through early June. This closure is necessary to stabilize the road and prevent further disruptions. Once the northbound lanes are completed, work will shift to the southbound side, with similar closures. This project is aimed at providing a permanent fix to the recurring sinkhole issues, ensuring a safer and more efficient transportation route for the community. The improvements will not only benefit commuters but also help businesses and residents who rely on this major corridor. More information is available on the U.S. 202 (Dekalb Pike) sinkhole remediation project webpage . Thank you for your patience regarding this matter, and for your ongoing efforts to improve our region's transportation network. Read more

 

Judiciary Committee votes in favor of bills with bipartisan support

(Feb 03, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Feb. 3 – Today, the Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee voted to advance three important bills that are now under consideration by the full House. The bills, supported by legislators from both parties, seek to improve the criminal justice system, strengthen safety and simplify family law processes. Committee Chair Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, said, “The committee’s bipartisan support for these bills demonstrates our shared commitment to making necessary improvements to our laws, ensuring fairness, safety and efficiency across Pennsylvania. These bills are now on their way to the full House, where we will continue to work together for the benefit of all Pennsylvanians.” The following bills were voted out of committee: House Bill 36 , sponsored by state Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, would permit law enforcement officers working under the Pennsylvania Office of the State Inspector General to carry weapons while performing their duties. The legislation aims to enhance the safety of officers, who often face dangerous situations while fighting fraud, waste, misconduct and abuse in state programs and government agencies. House Bill 166 , sponsored by state Reps. Tim Bonner, R-Mercer, and Tarik Khan, D-Phila., would ensure that Pennsylvania’s death penalty statute meets the highest standard of proof before a jury can impose such a penalty. It would require the Commonwealth to Read more

 

REAL ID enforcement begins May 7: What you need to know

(Jan 31, 2025)

REAL ID enforcement begins May 7: What you need to know Read more

 

Briggs returns as PA House Judiciary Committee chair

(Jan 07, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 7 – State Rep. Tim Briggs officially took the oath of office today to begin his ninth term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He was sworn in as part of the newly convened 202-member chamber. The oath was administered by Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Todd, marking the start of the 2024-25 legislative session. As part of this term, Briggs will continue his leadership role as majority chair of the House Judiciary Committee, a position he has held for the past two years. This marks his second consecutive term in this key role, where he will continue to work on important issues related to the justice system, civil liberties and public safety in Pennsylvania. “Respected for his fair and thoughtful leadership, Representative Briggs has been a tremendous leader of the House Judiciary Committee and on criminal justice reform,” Speaker Joanna McClinton said. “As chairman he’s made history in advancing long overdue policies that would keep Pennsylvanians and communities safe, and he will continue to engage with his colleagues and stakeholders to steer meaningful legislation through Judiciary as chairman in the 2025-26 session.” Briggs has been a strong advocate for progressive policies, including criminal justice reform, environmental protection, and improving public education. He is known for his collaborative approach to addressing the critical Read more

 

Briggs highlights productive session for the PA House Judiciary Committee

(Dec 12, 2024)

The House Judiciary Committee had one of its most productive sessions in recent memory during the 2023-24 legislative term. It was a productive term, and we started our work on the very first day that the speaker of the House named me as the majority chairman. We moved transformative legislation that will positively impact many of our families, friends, neighbors and communities. The committee moved 137 pieces of legislation out of committee and to the floor of the House of Representatives. Thirty-four of the bills passed out of the committee were signed by the governor and became law. Read more

 

$1 million RACP grant secured for Ardmore Avenue Community Center upgrades

(Nov 01, 2024)

"This investment in the Ardmore Avenue Community Center builds a space where seniors, families and young people can connect and thrive," Briggs said. "Projects like this support healthy communities and bring real value to our daily lives." Read more

 

Briggs secures over $1.3 million in grants for Montco community projects

(Oct 22, 2024)

“These LSA funds will improve public spaces, revitalize landmarks, and modernize local infrastructure,” said Briggs. “The projects being funded are essential to improving the quality of life for our residents, whether it’s through the creation of public parks, the restoration of historic landmarks, or ensuring the safety of our fire stations. I’m thrilled to see these projects move forward.” Read more

 

Krueger bill aims to prohibit wildlife trafficking in PA
Jun 04, 2025

Briggs, Kerwin introduce bipartisan bill to help victims of violent crime
Jun 03, 2025

Briggs announces House Judiciary Committee approval of bills to support vulnerable Pennsylvanians, strengthen public safety
Jun 02, 2025

PA House Judiciary Committee approves four measures
May 14, 2025

Hanbidge and Briggs legislation streamlining child custody determination factors passes House
May 06, 2025

House Judiciary Committee approves legislation to help survivors of childhood sexual abuse
May 06, 2025

House Judiciary Committee approves five measures
May 05, 2025

Members of PA House Southeast Delegation respond to SEPTA's proposed service cuts & rate hikes
Apr 10, 2025

An Open Letter to the Lawyers and Law Firms the Trump Administration Seeks to Silence
Apr 02, 2025

Shred Event this Sunday
Apr 01, 2025

Bipartisan bills get reported out of PA House Judiciary Committee
Mar 25, 2025

Helping SEPTA help you get to work
Feb 27, 2025

Briggs announces funding for Lower Merion traffic light project
Feb 27, 2025

Route 202 update
Feb 07, 2025

Judiciary Committee votes in favor of bills with bipartisan support
Feb 03, 2025

REAL ID enforcement begins May 7: What you need to know
Jan 31, 2025

Briggs returns as PA House Judiciary Committee chair
Jan 07, 2025

Briggs highlights productive session for the PA House Judiciary Committee
Dec 12, 2024

$1 million RACP grant secured for Ardmore Avenue Community Center upgrades
Nov 01, 2024

Briggs secures over $1.3 million in grants for Montco community projects
Oct 22, 2024