With the 2019-20 Legislative Session now underway, Senator Dan Laughlin will now have a seat on the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.
Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati appointed Senator Laughlin to serve as a member of the Committee, which is tasked with reviewing all legislation for its fiscal impact. The Appropriations Committee also plays a crucial role in developing the state budget each year.
“I am truly honored that Senator Scarnati appointed me to serve on the Appropriations Committee,” Senator Laughlin said. “I am dedicated to ensuring that my constituents have a say in the important issues that will come before the General Assembly during this legislative session.
“With the uncertainties of the state economy and a level of anxiety present in the business community, Pennsylvania must remain fiscally responsible in the investment of taxpayer dollars,” Senator Laughlin added. “We have a basic responsibility to ensure that state spending is practical and prudent. We should be focused on making Pennsylvania more competitive and more attractive for economic development.”
Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Senator Pat Browne (R-Lehigh) welcomed the addition of Senator Laughlin to his committee.
“Senator Laughlin will be an outstanding addition to the Appropriations Committee for several reasons,” said Senator Browne “He has already proven to be a strong advocate for the Erie community and the northwestern Pennsylvania region. I expect he will bring that same enthusiasm to the Appropriations Committee. In addition, Senator Laughlin has already shown an intense interest in the budget process, as he has read through the entire budget the last two years searching for ways to save the Commonwealth money. That diligence will benefit the committee and the taxpayers of Pennsylvania.”
In addition to the Appropriations Committee, Senator Scarnati appointed Senator Laughlin to serve as Vice Chairman of the Banking & Insurance Committee and as a member of three additional committees: Community & Economic Development, Intergovernmental Operations, and Urban Affairs & Housing.
Earlier this month, Senator Scarnati appointed Senator Laughlin to serve as Chairman of the Senate Game & Fisheries Committee for the 2019-20 Legislative Session. Senator Laughlin is an avid outdoorsman and is the author of legislation that would empower the Game Commission to permit Sunday hunting and modernize the antlerless deer licensing process.
“I am truly looking forward to taking over this Committee which oversees recreational activities enjoyed by millions of Pennsylvanians,” said Senator Laughlin. “We will be considering issue that not only impact our sportsmen and our wildlife, but also the communities where these activities are popular.
Contact: Matt Azeles mazeles@pasen.gov