Pielli celebrates signature of two bills into law
Rep. Chris Pielli June 27, 2025 | 3:21 PM
HARRISBURG, June 27 – State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, announced today that two of his bills, House Bills 355 and 491, have been signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro.
House Bill 355 allows a sentencing enhancement for courts to consider in sexual assault cases where the defendant holds a position of authority and is a mandated reporter. Mandated reporters are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Examples include clergy, school employees, health care professionals, childcare providers, law enforcement, and social service workers.
“This legislation, as amended, allowing for sentencing enhancements for a perpetrator in a position of authority, is a step in the right direction,” Pielli said. “I want to thank all those who have come out in support of this legislation, including Chairman Tim Briggs and staff. I’d especially like to thank Grace, the brave young woman who had the courage to come forward and share her story with me, and my co-prime sponsor Representative Joe D’Orsie, in turn, put a face of strength and resilience to all those victims who had to endure such injustice.”
House Bill 491 establishes concurrent jurisdiction of Pennsylvania and the Federal government on military installations. This will ensure military children have access to juvenile-focused resources, including for mental health issues, and that they are not unfairly tried as adults to address misconduct.
“When military installations are under exclusive federal jurisdiction, military children who find themselves in trouble are often forced through a federal justice system that does not offer as many rehabilitative options as does our Commonwealth,” Pielli said. “Under this law, installation authorities will be able to enter into a memorandum with state and local officials to define their working relationships and identify the best avenues for addressing juvenile misconduct of military-connected youth.
“I am beyond proud that these two bills have made it to the finish line,” he said. “So many of my colleagues in the House and Senate provided crucial feedback to ensure bi-partisan support for these bills. I wish to thank everyone who was a part of the legislative process and of course, I wish to thank Governor Shapiro for his approval and signature.”