Pennsylvania Wiretap Law Extension and Improvement Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk

Capitol Dome HarrisburgCredit: Commonwealth Media Services

PENNSYLVANIA — State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, announced on Wednesday that his proposed legislation, House Bill 1278, aimed at extending the expiration date and improving Pennsylvania’s wiretap law, has successfully passed both the state House of Representatives and state Senate. The bill is now set to be delivered to Gov. Josh Shapiro for review and approval.

House Bill 1278 proposes to extend the expiration date of the Pennsylvania Wiretap Act until December 31, 2029. Without this extension, the law was due to expire at the end of 2023.

In addition to this extension, the bill aims to amend Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically in relation to wiretapping and electronic surveillance. These amendments will further define exceptions to the prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications, provide for public access and outline the Department of Corrections retention policy. This bill was last signed in the Senate on December 13, 2023.

Furthermore, the bill proposes amendments to the current definition of “oral communication” within the law, intending to eliminate restrictions on conversations conducted in the presence of a state parole officer and Department of Corrections police officers.

The bill garnered bipartisan support, with an amendment from state Rep. Tim Bonner, R-Mercer/Butler, which seeks to remove previously prohibited recordings of predatory telemarketers.

“Renewing and improving the wiretap act is an extremely important crime-fighting measure,” Pielli said. “I thank my colleagues in the legislature who helped pass this bill quickly to ensure that this crucial law continues to aid our law enforcement authorities.”

The passage of this bill marks a significant step in refining the state’s approach to wiretapping and electronic surveillance, enhancing law enforcement capabilities while ensuring necessary checks and balances remain in place.

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