House Judiciary Committee approves five measures
Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus May 5, 2025 | 1:15 PM
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 critical—this bill ensures people have the care they need to build a new future, not fall through the cracks.”
House Bill 1042 (Sponsored by Reps. Napoleon Nelson and Natalie Mihalek)
The bill creates incentives for incarcerated individuals to complete vocational or educational programs by offering earned credits toward parole consideration. It also addresses barriers to occupational licensing for those with prior convictions, helping people to secure employment after release.
House Bill 1098 (Sponsored by Reps. Jason Ortitay and Jessica Benham): This bill establishes a statewide framework for state and local task forces to combat internet crimes against children. It complements the federal Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program and strengthens Pennsylvania’s investigative and prosecutorial efforts.
Senate Bill 475 (Sponsored by Sen. Amanda Cappelletti): The legislation renames “problem-solving courts” as “treatment courts” to better reflect their rehabilitative mission. It also enhances coordination and support for these courts through the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, improving outcomes and access to funding.
House Resolution 214 (Sponsored by Briggs and Rep. Rob Kauffman): This resolution recognizes May 2025 as National Treatment Court Month in Pennsylvania. Treatment courts integrate evidence-based treatment and judicial oversight to address substance use and mental health disorders, reduce recidivism and enhance community safety.
"As a longtime advocate for treatment-focused justice, I am proud to honor the work of these courts and the countless individuals they help reclaim their lives,” Briggs said. “Recognition this month is a tribute to their impact and a call to expand this vital work.
“This resolution is a strong, bipartisan statement of support for treatment courts. I’m grateful to work alongside Rep. Kauffman, the committee’s Republican chair, to recognize a proven model that helps people recover and keeps communities safer.”
The Judiciary Committee’s next scheduled meeting is Tuesday.
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CONTACT: Ryan Bevitz
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email: rbevitz@pahouse.net
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