For Immediate Release
5/08/07

CONTACT:

Nate Silcox
(717) 787-6063

The Senate State Government Committee today unanimously approved Senate Bill 468, a Constitutional Amendment introduced by Senator Bob Regola (R-39) which would eliminate "lame duck" voting sessions -- voting that occurs after a general election and before the start of a new legislative session.

"I am very pleased that the Committee reported this bill out and sent it to the full Senate for consideration," said Sen. Regola.  "The people of Pennsylvania have clearly shown that they want government to operate in a more open and honest manner."

"Banning lame duck sessions by legislators whose terms are about to expire and won't return to office the coming year is an essential reform," said Regola.  "In the past, lame duck voting has been used to vote on volatile issues like tax increases, borrowing or pay raises.  This Constitutional Amendment will stop this practice by ensuring that all votes are cast before an election so that lawmakers can be held accountable."

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, Pennsylvania is one of 12 states that do not limit legislative sessions.  Amendments to the state Constitution must be approved in two separate Legislative Sessions and by the voters as a referendum.