Bill Halting Closure of State Centers for at Least Five Years Passes House, James Says

Jan. 15, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – After dedicated opposition to the governor’s call to close Polk State Center, Rep. Lee James (R-Venango/Butler) announced that legislation passed the House today to prevent the closure of any state centers until at least five years from the bill’s passage, but not before a sensible plan for closure is created.

House Passes Bill to Increase River Safety, Gillespie Says

Jan. 15, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – Rep. Keith Gillespie (R-Hellam) today announced that the House of Representatives has passed his bill, House Bill 1003, which would strengthen the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s (PFBC) ability to enforce the marking of low head or run-of-the-river dams.

Rigby Calls on State Senate to Act on Emergency Responder Legislation

Jan. 15, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – When state Rep. Jim Rigby (R-Johnstown) returned home from session last fall, news of House passage of a series of “Helpers and Heroes” bills for emergency responders was very well received. Still, he knew the process was merely a third of the way done.

House Advances Schmitt Bill to Remove Antiquated Law

Jan. 14, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – As part of efforts to remove outdated laws from the books, the House passed legislation by Rep. Lou Schmitt (R-Blair) to repeal an archaic 163-year-old law that is no longer relevant.

Kauffman Takes Action to Combat Human Trafficking in PA

Jan. 14, 2020 /

HARRISBURG - In order to combat a hidden, yet widespread, problem and recognize National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Rep. Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, held a voting meeting of the committee today to move a package of bills aimed at combatting the crime of human trafficking.

Struzzi Appointed to House Children and Youth Committee

Jan. 14, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – Rep. Jim Struzzi (R-Indiana) has been appointed a member of the House Children and Youth Committee for the remainder of the 2019-20 Legislative Session. Struzzi’s appointment was made to fill one of two vacancies left due to member resignations.

Kail to Serve on House Judiciary Committee

Jan. 13, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – Rep. Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington) announced that he has been assigned to serve on the powerful House Judiciary Committee for the remainder of the 2019-20 legislative session.

House Passes Topper Bill to Dedicate Bedford County Bridge for Fallen Hero

Jan. 13, 2020 /

HARRISBURG – On Dec. 21, 1969, a young man from Bedford County gave his life in the service of his country. On Jan. 13, 2019, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved legislation by Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Franklin/Fulton) to dedicate a bridge for the young man, U.S. Army Ranger Sgt. David Leon Barber.

Gregory Honors War Hero with Bridge Naming

Jan. 13, 2020 /

HARRISBURG — The House of Representatives on Monday passed a bill sponsored by Rep. Jim Gregory (R-Blair) to honor the legacy of Cpl. Donald L. Westley through naming a bridge in Blair County for the veteran fatally wounded in combat in December 1944.