Apr. 29, 2019
Bills to give state government a modern ‘update’ are key focus for May
HARRISBURG – Government should work to make the lives of Pennsylvanians better, not place unfair burdens on their ability to grow and thrive. That is the goal for Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives over the next few weeks.
“Our members are working to repeal outdated laws and find more efficient ways to do the work of the people,” House Majority Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) said. “We’re taking a hard look at programs that work to help those in need, and those that are ripe for abuse. Our work next month will continue to grow opportunities for every Pennsylvanian while saving taxpayer time and money. That is government done right.”
Starting this week, votes are scheduled on a package of bills featuring a wide variety of red-tape reducing initiatives, including proposals to reduce costs at state agencies, consolidate services, eliminate outdated boards and commissions, and repeal out-of-date and out-of-touch laws that are no longer relevant.
Members have heard from job creators at all levels about the burdensome regulatory environment holding back Pennsylvania’s businesses. From small independent business owners, to multi-national corporations deciding whether or not to do business in Pennsylvania, the over 153,000 regulatory restrictions on the books are holding the state back. The Commonwealth trails national averages for economic growth and removing barriers will allow all Pennsylvanians to benefit in a climate that can grow jobs and opportunities.
A key piece of the regulatory reforms is reexamining Pennsylvania’s permitting process. Neighboring states have rules requiring state permit response in as little as 90 days. This gives contractors a reasonable timeframe to plan large-scale projects for improving communities and hiring workers. Pennsylvania’s overly regulated process results in undetermined and unpredictable wait times for permits, leaving communities in the dark and workers without paychecks. This package of bills would provide timelines for responses and answers to helping the state address permitting backlogs.
Cutler added, “If Pennsylvania hopes to attract the next ‘Amazon’ or encourage the best and brightest leaders to stay in our state to grow their ideas, then we need to make sure Pennsylvania is open for business. Reducing regulations and updating the laws is more than just a good idea – it is government done right.”
For more information on all the bills in the package visit
PAHouseGOP.com/govtdoneright.
Listen to an audio clip from Majority Leader Cutler on the package of bills
here.
Representative Bryan Cutler
100th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Mike Straub
717-260-6397
mstraub@pahousegop.com
RepCutler.com /
Facebook.com/RepBryanCutler
Twitter.com/RepBryanCutler