Pippy: New Rules Will Provide More Public Scrutiny of State Senate

Harrisburg – State Sen. John Pippy (R-37) joined state Senate colleagues Tuesday in approving changes to the rules governing how the chamber operates, making the process more effective and open to the public.

"I'm very pleased these new rules have been adopted. They will help ensure that the people's business is conducted at reasonable hours, with enough notice so that everyone knows what legislators are voting on. In addition, text of the debates and the votes themselves will be available for public inspection on the Internet," said Pippy.

"Government at all levels answers to the people, and the first step in becoming more accountable is to have an open process," the senator added. "That's why I am pleased that the Senate is adopting these rules to make the legislative process more open and accessible."

Under the new rules:

· Session times will be limited to between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m.

· Amendments will be posted to the Internet before being offered on the Senate floor.

· The Senate will wait at least six hours before voting on an amended bill or a conference committee report.

· All roll call votes will be posted on the Internet as soon as possible after a vote, but always within 24 hours of a vote.

· Committee votes on bills will be posted on the Internet within 48 hours of the vote.

· The Senate's Legislative Journal – which includes the full text of all floor debates – will be posted on the Internet upon Senate approval of the Journal or within 45 days, whichever is earlier.

· An updated fiscal note will be prepared if a bill is amended after consideration by the Senate Appropriations Committee, if the amendment has a fiscal impact.

"These new rules are a great way to begin the 2007-2008 legislative session, and it's my hope that they are only the first steps in reforming state government," said Pippy. "We have a lot of work ahead of us over the next two years, and this action creates a process that is more open and fair."

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CONTACT: Matt Campion (412) 571-3822