Pennsylvania Board of Claims – Harrisburg, PA

Pennsylvania Board of Claims: Arbitrating Commonwealth Contracts

A Specialized Judicial Tribunal

The Pennsylvania Board of Claims, located at 200 North 3rd Street (Suite 700) in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, serves as a specialized, independent administrative court. It functions as the exclusive tribunal for arbitrating and resolving contract disputes involving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Originally established to provide a forum for contractors who would otherwise be barred by sovereign immunity from suing the state, the Board hears claims arising from contracts entered into by Commonwealth agencies. This includes disputes involving construction projects, procurement of goods and services, and real estate leases. The Board consists of three members appointed by the Governor: an attorney (who serves as Chair), a civil engineer, and a citizen member. This diverse composition ensures that cases are evaluated with both legal and technical expertise. 🏛️

Jurisdiction and Case Types

The Board’s jurisdiction is specific and statutory. It is the primary venue for:

• Contract Claims: Claims against the Commonwealth for amounts of $300 or more resulting from a contract dispute.
• Construction Disputes: Resolving complex issues related to state infrastructure projects, delays, and change orders.
• Non-Contract Claims: While limited, the Board may hear certain other claims as authorized by specific statutes.

Unlike a typical civil court, the Board of Claims follows its own rules of procedure (though similar to the PA Rules of Civil Procedure). Decisions made by the Board can be appealed to the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania.

Filing and Public Access

Parties wishing to file a claim must adhere to strict statutes of limitations and filing procedures defined in the Commonwealth Procurement Code. The office at 200 North 3rd Street accepts filings and maintains the docket of active cases. While hearings are generally open to the public, the day-to-day operations involve processing complex legal documents. Attorneys and contractors are the primary visitors. The Board emphasizes a fair and efficient resolution process, often providing a faster alternative to traditional litigation for businesses dealing with the state. ⚖️