Criminal Justice (Local Government)

This bill allows second-class townships in Pennsylvania to vote on adding a new local tax to fund their police departments. Under the proposed changes, a township board of supervisors can place a referendum on the ballot to approve an annual tax of up to three mills on real property. If voters approve the measure, the collected funds would be used specifically to support the local police force. The tax would be collected in cash and would become effective 60 days after the bill is passed.

This bill allows boroughs and cities in Pennsylvania to levy an additional annual tax of up to three mills specifically to support local police departments. The key provision requires that any increase in the tax rate for this purpose must be approved by voters through a favorable referendum held in accordance with state election laws. Local councils can only impose this new tax after obtaining such voter approval, ensuring that the community directly decides on the funding for police support. The changes apply to both boroughs under Title 8 and cities under Title 11 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.