Jan. 29, 2016
HARRISBURG — In favor of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the legislative process in Pennsylvania and reducing costs, members of the York County House Republican Delegation applauded recent progress on legislation aimed at reducing the number of seats in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to 151; there are currently 203 seats.
State Reps. Seth Grove (R-Dover), Kate Klunk (R-Hanover), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York Township), Stan Saylor (R-Red Lion), Mike Regan (R-Dillsburg) and Keith Gillespie (R-Hellam) issued the following statement in response to Senate passage of House Bill 153:
“With today’s advanced technology, we have countless ways to connect with the people we represent and other legislators. We have the ability to serve the citizens effectively and more efficiently with fewer representatives, and we fully support this opportunity to make taxpayers’ dollars go farther.
“Pennsylvania has the largest full-time legislature in the nation. This is one step toward leading by example. A smaller number of members will break up the concentration of power in the hands of leaders and enable individual members to have a greater say in advancing issues of importance.”
In order to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution, a bill must be approved by the House and Senate in two consecutive legislative sessions. It would then be placed on the ballot for approval or rejection by Pennsylvania voters. If approved, the changes would take effect in the first session of the General Assembly that begins after the 2020 reapportionment.
“The constitutional amendment process ensures Pennsylvania voters will have the last word on this subject. Now that it’s passed the Senate, the measure must again pass both chambers next session before going to a voter referendum. We are certain if given the opportunity, Pennsylvanians will agree to this substantial reform that could save them millions of dollars annually.”
York County House Republican Delegation
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com