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Sara Innamorato — Democratic State Representative for Pennsylvania District 21 (official headshot)

Sara Innamorato Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform

PA Representative

District: 21 • Democrat

2023 DEM Alignment:

N/A

Lifetime Alignment:

5.66%

View Member History

Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter

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Rep. Sara Innamorato (D-PA-21) is tracked on the National Democrat Platform legislative scorecard. Sara Innamorato represents the 21st District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Title

Lawmaker Position

HB 1028House 20231x

Increasing Freight Shipping Costs Through Over-Regulation of the Railroad Industry.

Against DEMs
This bill imposes a list of new regulations on the railroad industry. For example, the bill limits train lengths in the state to 8,500 feet, requires two-person crews for certain railroads, and sets rules regarding wayside detectors (equipment along tracks which detect problems as a train passes). Penalties range from $1,000 to $25,000 per offense. The bill also requires a study of regulations regarding the transport of hazardous materials and creation of a system to report transport of such materials within the state. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this government overreach into the private sector places significant financial and regulatory costs onto the railroad industry, which is ultimately passed down to consumers. Except in cases of fraud or criminal activity, industries are best governed through free market principles whereby consumers hold private companies accountable.
HB 1032House 20231x

Imposing Unnecessary Costs onto Taxpayers through a New School Solar Energy Grant Program with Protectionist Provisions.

Against DEMs
This bill, the Solar for Schools Act, establishes a grant program to provide funds for schools to install solar panels. Grants may be equal to up to 50% of the cost, and the bill requires the solar equipment to be manufactured in the United States. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases taxpayer costs. While the grant program itself should not be established, the requirement that equipment be manufactured in the United States represents "protectionist" interference by government in the free market which unnecessarily drives-up costs to taxpayers. Free trade has been a foundational principle of limited government dating back to Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, who identified the disastrous consequences of protectionist trade practices in the "Wealth of Nations" in 1776.
HB 106House 20231x

Increasing Healthcare Costs by Imposing Nurse Staffing Mandates on Hospitals.

Against DEMs
This bill creates government-mandated nurse staffing ratios in Pennsylvania hospitals, limiting the number of patients that hospitals can assign to any individual nurse. Under the bill, ratios are dependent on the level of care needed to address the needs of patients, varying from 1 patient per nurse to up to 6 patients per nurse throughout different locations and units. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this one-size-fits-all mandate drives up healthcare costs and threatens patient safety. Instead of imposing new, burdensome mandates, lawmakers should empower the free market to make healthcare more affordable and accessible by reducing regulations and other anti-competitive measures, especially during a nationwide nursing shortage.
HB 106 (Bonner Amd. 946)House 20231x

Providing Hospitals Slight Regulatory Relief Through an Exemption to Nurse Staffing Level Mandates.

Against DEMs
The Bonner amendment #946 to a bill imposing nurse staffing mandates. This amendment would allow a hospital to request an exception to the mandated staffing levels, which must be granted if the Department of Health "determines that the health and safety of patients will not be compromised". Support is the Limited Government Position as one-size-fits-all mandates burden hospitals already struggling under the nationwide nursing shortage and threatens patient care. This amendment provides slight regulatory relief to hospitals through an exception to the staffing mandate.
HB 1096 (House Version)House 20231x

Expanding Consumer Choice by Extending Conversion of Liquor Licenses.

With DEMs
This bill allows certain hotel licensees to apply to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) to convert to restaurant liquor licenses upon application and payment of a $30,000 fee. The bill would also allow hotel licensees that were eligible to convert to a restaurant license under a bill passed in 2020, but did not do so, to similarly convert their licenses. There would be a two-year window for hotel licensees to apply. Lastly, the bill allows amusement parks that meet certain requirements, and some members of the American Public Garden Association, to acquire a public venue liquor license. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands consumer choice and individual liberties by eliminating unnecessary licensing restrictions on alcoholic beverage sales.
HB 1100House 20231x

Growing Government Dependency and Wealth Redistribution by Expanding Eligibility for the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Assistance Program.

Against DEMs
This bill expands eligibility for property tax and rent rebates under the Taxpayer Relief Act by increasing the maximum income threshold. Previously, property owners with a household income of up to $35,000, and renters with a household income of up to $15,000, were eligible for rebates. Under this bill, the maximum household income is increased to $45,000 for both, and will be adjusted annually for inflation. According to the bill''s fiscal note, expansion of these programs will cost $136.2 million in FY 2024-2025, increasing to $178.1 million in FY 2027-2028. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government dependency and wealth redistribution. Lawmakers should instead provide property tax relief in a broadly-applied manner.
HB 1163House 20231x

Infringing Property Rights by Allowing Municipalities to Sell Blighted Properties to Land Banks.

Against DEMs
This bill allows land banks to purchase properties declared by municipalities to be "blighted" or abandoned. Under the bill, property must meet certain conditions, such as being abandoned or vacant and blighted for five consecutive years, have prior building code violations and/or tax delinquency, and the locality must attempt to notify the property owner at least three times. Property owners are permitted to appeal such designations. A land bank must "pay just compensation of the appraised value of the real property". Oppose is the Limited Government Position Oppose is the Limited Government Position as strong property rights are one of the most important principles of our nation''s Constitution. This measure also contains numerous loopholes making it prime for abuse. Instead of growing government seizure of property, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.
HB 1207House 20231x

Infringing Property Rights by Allowing All Municipalities to Establish Land Banks which Seize Private Property for Redevelopment.

Against DEMs
Under current law, only localities with a population of more than 10,000 can establish land banks (which seize private property for redevelopment). This bill would amend the definition of "land bank jurisdiction" to include all municipalities. Additionally, the bill removes the population requirement for two or more municipalities in "an intergovernmental cooperation agreement to establish and maintain a land bank." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as strong property rights are one of the most important principles of our nation''s Constitution. Instead of growing government seizure of property, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.
HB 1218House 20231x

Abusing the Medicaid Welfare Program by Now Allowing Spouses to Be Paid Under the Program as Caregivers.

Against DEMs
This bill allows for spouses who provide personal care services to a medical assistance recipient to be paid under the caregiver program for Medicaid and Medicare waivers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows government dependency and wasteful spending within the state''s Medicaid welfare program, which already provides substantial benefits due to its expansion under Obamacare. Lawmakers should instead work to expand access to home care by reducing regulations which reduce the availability of services.
HB 1231House 20231x

Stacking the State Planning Board with Two Additional Members to Promote Climate Change and Historical Structures in Land Use Regulations.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the State Planning Board by adding the Director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. According to the sponsor, the additions will help grow the board''s role in combatting climate change and protecting historical legacy when it comes to land use regulations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure will likely result in the infringement of property rights in order to promote politicized initiatives surrounding climate change and special-interest preservation.
HB 1249House 20231x

Forcing Taxpayers to Subsidize $64.6 Million in Recruitment Incentives for Nurses, Teachers, and Law Enforcement.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Pennsylvania Individual Recruitment and Retention Tax Credit, which provides an income tax credit of up to $2,500 for individuals who earn a license or certification after 2022 in education, nursing, or policing. Individuals who received a certification in another state before 2023 and become employed in Pennsylvania are also eligible. According to the bill''s fiscal note, the tax credit will cost $64.6 million in FY 2023-2024. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education and ensure public safety and national defense, taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize incentives for individuals in certain professions.
HB 1259House 20231x

Growing Government Dependency and Wealth Redistribution by Expanding the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit.

Against DEMs
This bill expands the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit by providing that individuals who qualify for the federal child tax credit automatically qualify. The bill also increases the amount of the credit, ranging from 30% of expenses in 2023 to 50% by 2027. The bill also excludes from the state income tax amounts received by an employee from an employer for dependent care assistance that are excluded for federal taxes. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this this measure further grows government dependency. Instead of forcing taxpayers to pay for the childcare costs of other individuals, lawmakers should advance de-regulatory policies across the childcare industry to lower costs and expand competition. This free-market approach is the best way to make childcare more affordable.
HB 1272House 20231x

Growing Wealth Redistribution by Creating a State-Level Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Welfare Program.

Against DEMs
This bill creates a refundable Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for taxpayers against their income taxes, equal to 25% of the federal EITC. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This and other central planning and tax cronyism schemes merely dilute the tax base which results in higher taxes on all other individuals and businesses to make up for the lost revenue.
HB 1316House 20231x

Fueling Out-Of-Control Spending by Increasing the Cap on the Pennsylvania House Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund (PHARE).

Against DEMs
This bill increases the annual transfer cap of realty transfer tax revenue to the Pennsylvania House Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund (PHARE), which is used for affordable housing construction and rehabilitation. Under the bill, the annual cap is increased from $60 million to $100 million by 2025. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill fuels cronyism by enriching select developers through government central planning. Instead of growing government and central planning, lawmakers should empower the free market to make housing truly "affordable" by reducing stringent zoning laws and building regulations that significantly drive-up housing costs.
HB 1333House 20231x

Allowing Recycled Materials to be Used in Stuffed Toys While Also Implementing New Labeling Requirements.

Against DEMs
This bill allows recycled materials to be used in stuffed toys manufactured in the state (currently, only new materials may be used). However, the bill also requires that labels must certify that the manufacturer or importer of the toy does not engage in child labor, forced labor, or slave labor practices. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, although this measure reduces restrictions imposed on toy manufacturers, it also implements new and unnecessary labeling requirements that, while well intentioned, further burden manufacturers and drive-up costs.
HB 1354House 20231x

Imposing Excessive Additional Penalties on Employers who Violate State Regulations Under the Child Labor Act.

Against DEMs
This bill doubles fines on employers who violate any of the regulations under the Child Labor Act. The penalty for the first offense is increased from $500 to $1,000, and the second offense from $1,500 to $3,000. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure merely inflicts further financial harm on employers who fail to abide by any of the provisions within the Child Labor Act - which contains a number of overreaching regulations.
HB 1394House 20231x

Increasing Frivolous Litigation and Legal Liabilities by Making "Hair Texture and Protective Hairstyles" a Protected Characteristic in Employment.

Against DEMs
This bill, the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act, makes a person''s hair texture or hairstyle a protected characteristic if it is commonly associated with a particular race. CROWN applies to employment. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a new tool by plaintiffs'' attorneys to subject business owners and housing providers to frivolous litigation. Such actions merely drive-up costs for consumers and can be particularly devastating for small businesses and landlords.
HB 1408 (Klunk Amd. 1234)House 20231x

Driving Up Taxpayer Costs through New Labor and Licensing Compliance Mandates for Contractors Working on Public School Facilities.

With DEMs
The Klunk amendment #1234 to a bill regarding school construction. This amendment requires applicants that perform work under the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program to submit an affidavit that any contractors or subcontractors working are following certain contracting provisions. Those include requirements related to licensing, following unemployment and workers'' compensation laws, and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety requirements. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these new mandates are largely designed to enrich government-favored contractors and subcontractors, while unnecessarily punishing taxpayers who will be forced to bear the higher costs.
HB 1500House 20231x

Harming Employment Opportunities by Increasing the State''s Minimum Wage to $15 by 2026 and Raising the Minimum Wage for Tipped Employees.

Against DEMs
This bill raises the minimum wage incrementally, beginning in 2024, to $15 beginning in 2026, with annual cost-of-living adjustments thereafter. The bill requires tipped employees to be paid a cash wage of at least 60% of the required cash wage. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the minimum wage - like all price controls - distorts the marketplace, increasing unemployment for individuals who lack experience or whose productivity does not meet the higher wage level set by government.
HB 1500 (Flood Amd. 1022)House 20231x

Protecting Employment Opportunities by Slowing and Reducing the Minimum Wage Increase.

Against DEMs
The Flood amendment #1022 to a bill raising the minimum wage. This amendment replaces language in the bill which, beginning in 2024, raised the minimum wage incrementally to $15 beginning in 2026, and provided for annual cost-of-living adjustments thereafter. Under the amendment, the minimum wage would instead be raised incrementally, beginning in 2024, to $12 beginning in 2028, with no cost-of-living adjustments. Support is the Limited Government Position as the minimum wage - like all price controls - distorts the marketplace, increasing unemployment for individuals who lack experience or whose productivity does not meet the higher wage level set by government
HB 255House 20231x

Fueling Government Overreach by Providing Grants to Localities to Establish Code Enforcement Programs.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Municipal Codes Enforcement Grant Program, to provide grants to municipalities to establish code enforcement programs in municipalities without one. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as many of the zoning, land use and other property regulations enacted across the state are overreaching and unnecessary. Lawmakers should instead work to incentive the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.
HB 450House 20231x

Growing Government Central Planning by Extending Main Street Program Manager Grants for an Additional Five Years.

Against DEMs
This bill extends grants under the Main Street Program for administrative costs of hiring a Main Street Manager for an additional five years. The Main Street program is designed to provide assistance and resources to municipalities in preparing and implementing a revitalization and enhancement strategy for downtown commercial areas. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to advance innovation and grow business, instead of government employees, who are not financially held accountable to the success or outcomes of the grants they issue.
HB 580House 20231x

Expanding Cronyism Through $2 Million in Grants to Food Establishments by Re-Establishing the Fresh Food Financing Initiative.

Against DEMs
This bill re-establishes the Fresh Food Financing Initiative (which ended in 2010) to provide grants for construction, rehabilitation, or expansion of retail food establishments in low-and-moderate income areas. The state budget allocates $2 million for the program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill worsens corporate welfare and cronyism by providing competitive advantages to select industries and businesses at the expense of taxpayers.
HB 622 (Roae Amd. 994)House 20231x

Reducing Taxpayer Expenses by Reducing Bloated Salaries of Unelected Bureaucrats in the Gaming Control Board.

Against DEMs
The Roae amendment #994 to a bill making appropriations to various funds. This amendment reduces the salary of members of the Gaming Control Board from $140,000 to $100,000. Support is the Limited Government Position as there is no reason that unelected bureaucrats, who meet just once a month, should be paid (by taxpayers) more than double the salary of the average Pennsylvanian.
HB 664House 20231x

Growing Government Bureaucracy and Dependency Through an Advisory Board to Increase WIC Welfare Program Enrollment.

Against DEMs
This bill, the WIC State Advisory Board Act, establishes the Women, Infants and Children State Advisory Board within the Department of Health to, in part, "Increase enrollment and utilization of the programs." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill not only grows government bureaucracy, but also advances greater government dependency within the WIC welfare program. Lawmakers should instead work toward reducing government dependency and helping work-ready adults to become self-sufficient.
HB 666House 20231x

Placing Taxpayers at Risk of Higher Costs by Removing the "At-Will" Employment Requirement for the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

Against DEMs
This bill amends the Housing Authorities Law to remove the requirement that employees of the Philadelphia Housing Authority with executive duties be "at-will" employees. Instead, the bill requires contracts approved by the Housing Authority. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure places taxpayers at risk of higher costs and makes it harder to terminate poor performing employees, and it is especially unnecessary to deviate from at-will employment as the authority does not perform a core duty of government.
HB 767House 20231x

Growing Bureaucracy through an Unnecessary Commission to Support "Socially Diverse" Farmers.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Pennsylvania Socially Diverse Farmers Commission, tasked with proposing legislation and regulatory changes to support "socially disadvantaged farmers," such as grants, tax credits, land and capital access, and training. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this entity serves an unnecessary bureaucracy. It is the role and duty of government to treat individuals of every background equally, and taxpayers should not be forced to fund commissions for select interests.
HB 78House 20231x

Increasing Government Dependency by Forgiving up to $400 Million in Medical Debt.

Against DEMs
This bill creates the Medical Debt Relief Program under the Department of Health, tasked with discharging medical debt of eligible individuals. To be eligible, residents must have a household income at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty guidelines or have medical debt equal to 5 percent or more of the individual''s household income. Governor Shapiro called for a $4 million allocation in the budget which is expected to purchase $400 million in existing medical debt. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows government dependency, which oftentimes leads to intergenerational poverty. Taxpayers with no medical debt should not be forced to pay off the medical debt of others. Lawmakers should instead repeal mandates and regulations that stifle innovation and drive-up healthcare costs for everyone.
HB 807House 20231x

Growing the Size and Role of Government by Directing the Department of Health to Partner with Hospitals to Produce Menopause Informational Materials.

Against DEMs
This bill permits the Department of Health to partner with health care providers and hospitals to educate women on the system, processes, and other issues regarding perimenopause and menopause, such as creating and providing informational materials that may be distributed. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while well intentioned, the private sector is much more effective in educating the public about perimenopause and menopause and providing the necessary materials and awareness.
HB 841House 20231x

Threatening Public Safety by Limiting the DNA Collection of Juvenile Offenders and Creating Automatic Expungement Rules that Prevent Communities from Protecting Themselves..

Against DEMs
This bill limits the offenses for which juvenile DNA is collected to only serious violent and sexual felonies and then creates an automatic data expungement rule for previously collected DNA. Under the bill, collected DNA of a juvenile must be automatically expunged at the time the applicable offense would be eligible for expungement. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while there are valid concerns regarding civil liberties and increased government access to biological data, this measure weakens the ability to safeguard communities and ensure public safety against convicted criminals.
HB 850House 20231x

Growing Government Dependency by Expanding Welfare Programs to Provide Diapers and Menstrual Hygiene Products.

Against DEMs
This bill requires the Department of Human Services to apply for a waiver permitting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits to be used to purchase menstrual hygiene products and diapers, if the federal government makes such a waiver available. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows government dependency, which oftentimes leads to intergenerational poverty. Instead of increasing welfare eligibility, lawmakers should work to reduce government barriers to employment and help empower the private sector to care for individuals who are in need.
HB 850 (Grove Amd. 1440)House 20231x

Promoting Self-Sufficiency by Ensuring Continuation of Work Requirements Within the SNAP Welfare Program.

Against DEMs
The Grove amendment #1440 to a bill expanding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This amendment prohibits the Department of Human Services from requesting the federal government to waive work requirements for SNAP benefits. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a strong step in the right direction of reducing government dependency and helping work-ready adults to become self-sufficient.
HB 850 (Warner Amd. 1416)House 20231x

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Fraud by Requiring DHS to Implement Programs to Identify Potential Welfare Fraud.

Against DEMs
The Warner amendment #1416 to a bill expanding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This amendment requires the Department of Human Services to establish a program to, in part, detect suspicious transactions, including when more than 50% of the funds on an EBT card are used outside the state. Support is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer resources should be protected from waste, fraud, and abuse. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to curb abuse, especially considering the fact over $70 million in Pennsylvania welfare EBT card benefits are used outside of the state each year.
HB 967House 20231x

Driving Up Costs through an Unnecessary Mandate Forcing Hotels to Provide Employees with Safety Devices to Report Crime.

Against DEMs
This bill requires all hotels with at least 150 rooms to provide an "employee safety device", such as a radio, to each employee while they are working in a guest''s room, so the employee may call for help if the employee believes a crime is ongoing, or there is an immediate threat of assault or inappropriate conduct. The bill also prohibits retaliation by an employer and requires the Department of Labor and Industry to develop a program educating hotel employees on topics such as use of the safety device, hotel employee rights, harassment, assault, and other inappropriate guest or employee conduct. Violations will result in a fine of up to $5,000 for the first violation and $10,000 for each subsequent violation. The bill doesn''t apply if a collective bargaining agreement already includes employee safety devices. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while the intent of the bill is noble, the solution is not the further expansion of the government regulatory state and imposition of new one size-fits-all mandates and costs onto the private sector. Instead, government should work to restore law and order within the state by repealing "criminal justice reforms" and other soft on crime policies which have fueled the national crime wave.
HR 131House 20231x

Advancing Higher Energy Costs by Studying the Imposition of a New Severance Tax on the Oil and Gas Industry.

Against DEMs
This resolution directs a nonpartisan committee to study severance tax structures in other major gas-producing states for the oil and gas industry. The tax would charge producers based on how much gas they take from the ground. Currently, the state levies impact fees on drillers for each hold put in the ground, these fees decreasing for companies over time. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all state and local tax codes should be constructed in a broadly applied manner with the lowest rates possible for everyone. This measure merely serves as a tool to increase tax revenue and government spending.
SB 202House 20231x

Weakening Property Rights by Allowing Additional Localities to Claim Property for Sheriff''s Sale.

Against DEMs
This bill would allow the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County (previously only the City of Philadelphia) the authority to impose a municipal claim, lien, tax, tax claim, or tax lien on property in order to sell the property through Sheriff''s Sale. For properties specifically located within Allegheny County, the bill reduces the time property owners have to redeem the property sold at the Sale from nine to three months. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as strong property rights are one of the most important principles of our nation''s Constitution. Instead of growing government seizure of property, lawmakers should work to incentivize the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.
HB 1025House 20231x

Fostering Division by Expanding Anonymous Reporting Programs to Include "Hate-Based Intimidation."

Neutral
This bill requires colleges and universities, as well as public K-12 schools, to have policies which include "Hate-based intimidation," which the bill defines as injuring a person or damaging property "which is motivated by hatred toward the actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation or disability of another individual or group of individuals with which the other individual is associated." Anonymous reports may be submitted through existing reporting systems and public K-12 and charter schools are required to include training on "hate-based intimidation" in staff training. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as hate crimes and other penalty enhancements go against equal application of justice under the law by providing certain individuals with greater protections than others.
HB 1027House 20231x

Undermining "Equal Application of Law" by Expanding Application of the State''s Hate Crime Law.

Neutral
This bill expands the application of the state''s "Ethnic intimidation" law to now include "Hate-based intimidation." Previously, the law included crimes committed "with malicious intention toward the race, color, religion or national origin of another individual or group of individuals." Under this bill, the law is expanded to also include "ethnicity, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, or age or autism spectrum disorder". Additionally, the bill allows victims to bring a civil suit against offenders. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as hate crimes and other penalty enhancements go against equal application of justice under the law by providing certain individuals with greater protections than others.
HB 1062House 20231x

Advancing Government Overreach through the Establishment of a Property Maintenance Code Serious Violations Registry.

Neutral
This bill creates a statewide blight data collection system operated by the Department of Community and Economic Development (or a third-party entity selected by the department). The system, named the Property Maintenance Code Serious Violations Registry, shall contain property maintenance code violations filed by municipalities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents government overreach which merely serves to increase property seizures under the guise of enforcing excessive zoning laws and building regulations. Lawmakers should instead work to incentive the private sector to rehabilitate properties by reducing excessive building regulations, reforming zoning laws, and reducing crime in communities.
HB 1219 (Kephart Amd. 2152)House 20231x

Spurring Economic Growth by Accelerating the Corporate Net Income Tax Reduction to 4.99% from 2031 to 2026.

Neutral
The Kephart amendment #2152 to a bill expanding various tax credits. This amendment accelerates the reduction of the corporate net income tax rate, reducing the tax rate from 9.99% to 4.99% by 2026 and each year thereafter. Originally, the tax rate would not reach 4.99% until 2031. Support is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the nation, placing the state at a competitive disadvantage in attracting businesses and growing the state economy.
HB 1219 (Kephart Amd. 2153)House 20231x

Spurring Economic Growth by Increasing the Maximum Amount of Operating Losses Applied to Corporate Net Income Tax.

Neutral
The Kephart amendment #2153 to a bill expanding various tax credits. This amendment increases the amount of net operating losses that may be applied to corporate income taxes, from 40% to 80% over the next 4 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as Pennsylvania has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the nation, placing the state at a competitive disadvantage in attracting businesses and growing the state economy. This amendment helps unleashes economic growth by providing tax relief to businesses.
HB 1284House 20231x

Growing the Surveillance State and "Taxation Through Citation" by Renewing and Expanding Speed Camera Programs.

Neutral
This bill makes permanent the Automated Speed Enforcement Program along Roosevelt Boulevard in Philadelphia and expands the program to all roads in Philadelphia. The program uses cameras to detect and record motorists exceeding the posted speed limit by 11 miles per hour or more. Additionally, the bill establishes a five-year pilot program for speed cameras in active school zones and makes permanent ASE systems in active work zones. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these systems have been abused by countless local governments across the nation to produce revenue, many of which place such devices not at spots closest to schools but at locations most likely to catch speeders. Additionally, the significant increases in automated traffic systems brings up valid concerns regarding civil liberties and the growth of government tracking and surveillance.
HB 1291 (Motion to Consider Gaydos Amd. 2088)House 20231x

Strengthening Election Integrity by Requiring Residency Change Notifications for Voter Registration Applications.

Neutral
This motion is to consider Gaydos amendment #2088 to a bill regarding driver''s licenses for disabled individuals. This amendment requires the Department of State to notify all departments of residency changes, including voter registration applications. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation''s constitutional republic.
HB 1291 (Motion to Consider Krupa Amd. 2119)House 20231x

Strengthening Election Integrity Through Voter ID and Audits of Automatic Voter Registration System.

Neutral
This motion is to consider Krupa amendment #2119 to a bill regarding driver''s licenses for disabled individuals. This amendment requires an audit of the Governor''s automatic voter registration system, requires county registration boards to certify that registered voters are eligible, and requires individuals registered under the automatic voting system to show state issued photo ID when voting. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation''s constitutional republic.
HB 1300House 20231x

Growing Out of Control Spending and Wealth Redistribution Through the Budget Implementation Bill.

Neutral
This bill, the FY 2023-2024 "budget implementation" bill, contains significant welfare spending and wealth redistribution provisions. Most notably, beginning in 2023, the bill increases the Pennsylvania Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit from 30% to 100% of "employment-related expenses" claimed on federal taxes, or $3,000 for 1 dependent or $6,000 for 2 or more, whichever is less. According to the bill''s fiscal note, this increase is expected to cost an additional $57.4 million in 2023-2024 and $87.4 million in 2024-2025. The bill also increases the monthly "Uniform 911 surcharge" on phone bills from $1.65 to $1.95, beginning in March 2024. According to the bill''s fiscal note, this increase is expected to generate over $60 million in additional revenue. Additionally, the bill requires $12 million to be used to increase payments to dental providers under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these provisions increase government dependency and wealth redistribution. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 1338House 20231x

Weakening Property Rights by Preventing the State from Overruling Excessive Regulations Localities Impose on ATV''s and Dirt Bikes.

Neutral
This bill prevents the state from superseding or preempting local ordinances imposed by localities on ATV''s and dirt bikes. As a result, local governments have greater legal authority to enact bans on off-road vehicles and seize ATVs or dirt bikes if they are operated in a way which violates ordinance. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while government has a duty to uphold the rule of law to ensure societal safety and order, this measure eliminates a critical protection on overreaching regulations that may be imposed at the local level on ATVs and dirt bikes, such as outright bans and seizures.
HB 1416House 20231x

Worsening Pennsylvania''s Unfunded Pension Crisis by Providing Additional Payouts to State Employees.

Neutral
This bill provides a cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) of between 15% and 24.5% for Public School Employees'' Retirement System (PSERS) and State Employees'' Retirement System (SERS) recipients. According to the bill''s fiscal note, this will increase unfunded liabilities by around $1.19 billion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure merely worsens Pennsylvania''s unfunded pension liability crisis, which is already at $42.3 billion.
HB 1461House 20231x

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Providing 4 Non-State-Owned Universities with Over $603 Million in Taxpayer Funds (a $6.47 Million Increase).

Neutral
This bill appropriates over $603 million, a $6.47 million increase from the previous year''s funding, to four "state-related" universities: Penn State University, Temple University, Lincoln University and University of Pittsburgh. The $242 million given to the Penn State University received controversy due to its children''s hospital policy that would prescribe puberty blockers to children under the age of 10. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education - ideally through school choice. College and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e., tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These enormous costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades. Furthermore, Pennsylvania''s state debt and liabilities currently exceed $120 billion, representing a $15,600 debt burden for each state taxpayer. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
HB 1465House 20231x

Hiking Utility Costs by Forcing Public Utility Companies to Pay the Lofty Prevailing Wage Rate on Underground Infrastructure Projects.

Neutral
This bill, the Underground Infrastructure Works Act, requires public utilities to pay the prevailing wage for "underground infrastructure projects" and meet certain workplace safety standards, such as requiring all workers to complete a 10-hour safety course and other training. The prevailing wage is a depression-era law which requires payment of above-market wages, usually advocated by labor unions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill unnecessarily hikes the costs of utility projects as mandates requiring the prevailing wage needlessly drive-up costs by imposing significant additional costs.
HB 1479House 20231x

Imposing Excessive and Costly New Mandates on State Entities Surrounding Online Accessibility Standards for Individuals with Disabilities.

Neutral
The bill requires all public entities (agencies, boards, commissions and municipalities) to further increase the accessibility standards for the websites they operate. Additionally, the state Office of Information Technology is directed to establish new standards. According to the sponsor, while the state already meets minimum standards for individuals with disabilities, "Pennsylvania should lead in digital accessibility." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while steps should be taken to ensure individuals with disabilities have access to state resources, this bill imposes an excessive one-size-fits all mandate on countless state and local entities. Any efforts to expand accessibility should be properly tailored and pass basic cost and benefit tests. Furthermore, the private sector may already have services and technologies which already meet the needs of individuals with disabilities which this bill is seeking to address.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rep. Sara Innamorato's voting record?

Rep. Sara Innamorato (D-PA-21) is tracked on the National Democrat Platform legislative scorecard. Sara Innamorato represents the 21st District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Where does Sara Innamorato serve?

Rep. Sara Innamorato (D-PA-21) represents the 21st District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives as a Democrat.

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