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Pocono News Section
Group Wants PA Legislature to Shrink
Group Wants PA Legislature to Shrink - Monday, August 17, 2009 at 4:35PM EST
Reported by: Kyla Campbell
Monday, Aug 17, 2009 @ 04:35pm EST
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LACKAWANNA COUNTY -- We've all heard about Town Halls and Tea Parties. Now, a group is hitting the streets asking for support to trim the size of the state government.
"The legislature is simply too large," said Kevin Haggerty of Dunmore. "If you look comparatively to the rest of the country, we have, by far, the largest per capita legislature in the nation."
That's why Haggerty started a grassroots effort called "The Power of Service." They've been collecting signatures from people in the 112th district, calling for the state to reduce the number of representatives. He says 203 districts are too much. Plus, the reps can't agree.
"Many experts think that's why we have a budget impasse year after year after year," said Haggerty.
People like Brian West of Archbald believe the money used in representatives' budgets could be used more wisely.
"Road improvements, city block grants, stuff like that is much more important," said West.
Plus, Haggerty says some lawmakers have personal agendas.
"It's not just about the size. It's about the scope and the functionality," said Haggerty. "Our leaders are out there sitting on boards and being paid for them, they're making money on the side. When you compete against the peoples' interest with your own financial interest, you really lose the sense of valor and duty, and that's what's happening with our legislature."
He says a state senator from Western PA is introducing legislation to downsize the number of representatives. The state budget has delayed hearings on the issue. He just hopes, in time, they accomplish their goal.
"To bring accountability and reform to the state legislature," said Haggerty.
If you want to learn more about his group or sign an online petition, copy and paste the following in your web browser:
http://thepowerofservice. com/ | | |
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