Representatives Move to Force Action on Gift Ban
September 28, 2026
HARRISBURG – Reps. Mike Jones (R-York), Marc Anderson (R-York) and Scott Barger (R-Blair/Huntingdon) today filed a discharge petition trying to force the House of Representatives to take votes on House Bill 744, a measure that would prohibit lawmakers, political candidates and government employees from accepting cash in any amount and gifts valued at more than $50.
The representatives consulted with MarchOnHarrisburg advocates as they developed the discharge petition to uphold the organization’s mission to get money out of politics in Pennsylvania.
“We know that money can influence, there are reasons lobbyists spend it, and it can have a very adverse effect on the public’s trust and perception of our legislative body here in Harrisburg. Those things matter. They matter a lot,” said Jones. “While allowing for common sense exceptions such as legitimate education opportunities related to legitimate legislative work, this bill eliminates cash gifts and puts forth very substantial restrictions on personal gifts, such as travel, sporting event tickets, and individual meals, none of which are necessary for any of us to perform our job as legislators,” he said.
Barger explained a large part of why he supports the petition is because of overall inaction in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
“The House has been in voting session just 36 days this calendar year. We’re supposed to be a full-time Legislature, but House Democrats have given us few opportunities to be in Harrisburg and even fewer chances to consider worthy legislation like the gift ban and the multiple bills that would protect female athletes from competing against males,” Barger said. “We shouldn’t have to force it to happen. Why are we not here more often doing the work of the people?”
“Servant leadership is a critical element of self-government,” said Anderson. “One cannot effectively and honorably serve the people if they seek to serve themselves. The ban on legislative gifts is a step to return our focus on service to others instead of service to self.”
Jones said it’s quite rare for Republican lawmakers to force a vote on a Democrat bill. “While our actions cannot force the bill into law, it can force action on the bill; and it can force some, hopefully all members, to finally let us know where they stand on the gift ban. It’s time for an up- or- down vote. That’s all we want,” Jones said.
Jones filed the discharge petition at the Capitol this morning ahead of its formal introduction in the House. They held a news conference to announce their intentions.
Representative Mike Jones
93rd Legislative District
Representative Scott Barger
80th Legislative District
Representative Marc Anderson
92nd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives