SB 2, PN 86 (K. Ward) – A Joint Resolution proposing separate and distinct amendments to the Constitution of Pennsylvania providing for prohibition against denial or abridgment of equality of rights because of race and ethnicity, providing for disaster emergency declaration and management, and concurrent orders and resolutions.
Senator Boscola offered amendment A00199 which requires all three constitutional amendments contained in the bill appear on the ballot at the first municipal election after advertising requirements are met and at least 3 months after it is passed by the General Assembly. Presumably, this is the 2021 Municipal Election. Currently the joint resolution allows the three amendments to appear on the “first primary, general or municipal election“ after advertising requirements are met and at least 3 months after it is passed by the General Assembly. The amendment failed by a vote of 17-31.
Senator Boscola also offered amendment A00186 which prohibits any school district from levying property taxes on homesteads or farmsteads after June 30, 2026. Authorizes the General Assembly to provide each school district with maintenance and support equal to the amount of property taxes levied during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. Maintenance and support may include:
- State Income Taxes
- Sales and Use Taxes
- Local Personal Income taxes
- Local Earned Income Taxes
Additional amounts collected under the state income tax and state SUT shall be deposited into a separate fund in the state treasury known as the Stabilization of Education Fund to be used for the purpose of maintenance and support of school districts. Senator K. Ward motioned to table the amendment. The motion was sustained by a vote of 30-18. The bill was approved by a vote of 28-20