Everett, Wheeland Support Legislation to Reduce the Size of the Pennsylvania General Assembly
HARRISBURG – Legislation contained in two bills to ultimately reduce the size of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 203 members to 151 and the Senate from 50 to 37 was approved by the House this week with affirmative votes from Rep. Garth Everett (R-Lycoming/Union) and Rep. Jeff C. Wheeland (R-Lycoming).
“This legislation is part of a continuing effort to scale back the size and scope of state government and make it more efficient,” said Everett. “It is the start of a lengthy process, but it is a meaningful first step in responding to residents who have been asking for a leaner and more responsive government, while reducing the cost to the taxpayers.”
Wheeland said technological advances have made a difference in the interaction with constituents on a daily basis.
“We have moved into an age where technology is making it easier for state government officials to communicate with residents and respond to their needs,” said Wheeland. “This is a potential step into the future of government operations and communications that could result in the reduction of the cost of state government overall, but much more will remain to be done.”
The legislation is contained in
House Bill 153, which would reduce the size of the House, and House Bill 384, which is aimed at reducing the size of the Senate.
Both bills will have to be approved in two consecutive sessions of the Pennsylvania General Assembly before going to the voters in the form of a ballot referendum.
The bills now go to the Senate for consideration.
Rep. Jeff C. Wheeland
83rd District
Rep. Garth D. Everett
84th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Raymond Smith
House Republican Communications
717.705.1834
rsmith@pahousegop.com
RepWheeland.com
RepEverett.com