Speaker Turzai, Majority Leader Reed React to Governor’s Unilateral and Questionable Decision to Offer Reprieves For Convicted Murderers
HARRISBURG – Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) and Majority Leader Dave Reed (R-Indiana) issued the following statement today in response to Gov. Tom Wolf’s decision to place a moratorium on the death penalty in Pennsylvania.
“Well, we can’t say we are surprised he is checking off another box on his list of commitments to his political supporters.
“His death penalty moratorium is, in reality, a political statement without public discourse or input. Or, apparently, without any consideration for those the victims left behind.
“But there is, once more, a question. Did the governor overstep his authority? Once again, the governor acted not in an open or transparent manner, but unilaterally deciding to alter the law.
“Should Pennsylvania have a death penalty discussion? Yes, and our Judiciary Committee will be doing just that -- through our open and transparent legislative process.
“Part of the dysfunction in Washington, D.C., has been caused by a chief executive who has decided to unilaterally make public policy decisions. If we are to avoid the same problems in Pennsylvania, all branches of government need to be included in those policy decisions.”
Representative Mike Turzai
The Speaker
28th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Stephen Miskin
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