The Pennsylvania House of Representatives advanced Tuesday legislation authored by Rep. Tim O’Neal (R-Washington) that aims to make it easier for individuals and businesses to understand state regulations.
“Too many times state agencies believe their job is to be an adversary to businesses,” O’Neal said. “This results in confusion surrounding regulations and delays in projects. My bill would bring more collaboration between the two parties and signal Pennsylvania is willing to work with businesses to grow our economy.”
House Bill 762 would require every state agency to designate an employee as its regulatory compliance officer. The officer would work with the regulated community to explain regulations and resolve noncompliance issues before imposing penalties.
The bill would also allow an individual or business to request an advisory opinion from the compliance officer regarding their duties under a regulation. If the individual or business follows the opinion, they could not be held liable.
The legislation now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.