Mar. 04, 2016
HARRISBURG – As majority chairman of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, State Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware) reviewed the governor’s 2016-17 budget proposal, including requests by the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Homeland Security and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. This week, the House Appropriations Committee continued its extensive look at the governor’s proposal.
“It is crucial that we review the many departments that serve Commonwealth residents – especially those that focus on providing basic rights such as safety and security – each year to make sure that the necessary funding is available and it is being used to its full potential,” Barrar said. “The budget hearings are part of how we ensure that money is being appropriated judiciously.”
During the PSP and Homeland Security hearing, the Appropriations Committee asked about the Commonwealth’s ability to respond to national and international threats. It was shared that the state has an intelligence center that brings subject matter analysts – the top professionals in their fields – together to ensure that citizens are protected. Col. Tyree Blocker also shared information about equipment that the PSP force is considering to better serve state residents, including an updated radio system and body cameras.
On Thursday, the Appropriations Committee asked the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs how Base Realignment and Closure is affecting Pennsylvania, how the Commonwealth is prepared to address cyber attacks and how the military will use drones to maintain security in the future. Questions were also posed regarding the care provided in veterans homes and if another home is needed in Pennsylvania.
To watch video from past hearings or to view the complete hearing schedule, please visit
pahousegop.com/budgethearings.aspx.
The hearings will finish next week, with appearances by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner and others.
Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
SteveBarrar.com /
Facebook.com/RepBarrar