March 18, 2010
Legislative Session
March has been an action packed legislative month. We expect April, May and June to be energized too. The House democrats, because of last year’s budget, have begun the process of moving the 2010 budget to the Senate. It is our educated opinion that the legislature will try its best to finish the budget on time. Because of elections, a late budget will most likely be avoided. Between now and June 1st, the legislature is scheduled to be in session 15 days. Nearly every day in June becomes a session day because of the budget. Nevertheless, those 15 session days, between now and June 1st, will be crucial. Whether we are being proactive or defensive on legislation, the remaining session days are when our office will have results and a clearer direction for summer and fall. The fall session schedule will be released in the near future. This two year legislative session, like every even year, ends on November 30th. The beginning of the next two year legislative session is on January 1st 2011. Although a great deal will occur between now and November, please keep this schedule in mind.
Sales Tax Expansion and Rate Decrease
Back in February, Governor Rendell announced his plan to expand the number of goods and services that would have to pay the Commonwealth’s sales tax and lower the rate from 6% to 4%. Although that plan sounds, “sort of ok,” when you look at the planned expansion – it’s scary. The legislation that would enact the plan has not been introduced; however a preliminary list has been released. The list is attached. After you read it, you will understand why expanding the sales tax would hard-hit everyone’s bottom line. A Harrisburg based coalition is building to fight the Governor’s plan. Our office is developing its strategy around the issue and will be involved on behalf of our clients.
Retirements and Elections
Members of the House and Senate have announced their intentions for 2011. Below is a list of the expected changes for the next legislative session 2011-12.
House Retirements
Keith McCall - D
Russ Fairchild - R
Merle Phillips - R
Tony Melio- D
Kathy Manderino - D
Will Gabig - R
Frank Oliver - D
Barbara McIlvaine Smith - D
Richard Grucela - D
Katie True - R
Bob Belfanti – D
Senate Retirements
Bob Mellow – D
Raphael Musto – D
Barry Stout – D
Leaving House to run for other office
Jim Wansacz – D (Running for Senate)
John Yudichak – D (Running for Senate)
Tim Solobay – D – (Running for Senate)
Sam Rohrer – R – (Running for Governor)
Brian Lentz – D – (Running for Congress)
Mario Civera – R – (County Council)
Vacant House Seats
20th District – Don Walko
138th District – Craig Dally
147th District – Bob Mensch
Session Schedule
House Spring 2010 Scheduled Session
April 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
May 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, 26
June 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Senate Spring 2010 Scheduled Session
April 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21
May 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, 26
June 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30
We will continue to inform and educate members of the House and Senate on your issues.
Again, we thank you for your continued patience and trust as events occur in the General Assembly. Our strategies and goals for each of you are changing as well, and must be updated and revised as the legislative schedules change. As always, our office will continue to seek the desired results for our clients, your issues and your members.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office with any questions or if you need assistance navigating the legislative process during these uncertain times. We are here to assist you in getting in touch with your local House or Senate member. Meeting constituents may help calm the "raging waters" and a common ground can once more take shape.(Feb.26.doc)
