Current through Register Vol. 54, No. 49, December 7, 2024
Section 25.14 - Analysis and insertion of definitionsThe revision bill should be analyzed from the following points of view:
(1) To determine which definitions set forth in 1 Pa.C.S. § 1991 (relating to definitions) are adequate for the purposes of the bill and, where appropriate, to insert such defined terms in lieu of equivalent language contained in the initial draft.(2) To identify the special definitions utilized in the initial draft, and to determine the appropriate scope to be accorded to such definitions, that is, to determine whether the definitions should be confined to a specific section, or whether they should precede a part, chapter, subchapter or other major subdivision.(3) To examine the special definitions utilized in the initial draft in both of the following ways: (i) To determine whether they are consistent with definitions of similar concepts in related areas of the law. Occasionally other statutes, not encompassed in the draft under consideration, will incorporate by reference a definition contained in a statute incorporated into and repealed by the bill. In such case a change in the definition may result in an inadvertent change in the meaning of the other statute. Where a first provision of the Statutes makes an express reference to a second provision of the Statutes, the citation of the first provision is printed following the text of the second or cited provision as published in Purdon's Statutes. Therefore, whenever a provision of the Statutes which sets forth a definition is incorporated into and repealed by or is amended by a revision bill, the Purdon's Statutes text of the provision should be consulted to determine whether the repeal or amendment will affect any other provision of the Statutes.(ii) To determine whether they are internally consistent. A definition "tree" (for example, reference should be made to § 23.222 (relating to Commonwealth government)) should be prepared as a working paper showing the relationship of all definitions utilized in the draft.(4) To identify repetitive concepts which could be shortened or clarified by the substitution of an appropriate new special definition.(5) To draft and insert at the beginning of each appropriate major subdivision and at the beginning of each appropriate section, appropriate language introducing the definitions there set forth.