Candidate for
State Representative; Pennsylvania State House of Representatives; District 41

REINING IN GOVERNMENT SPENDING

I don't fall into the trap of thinking that more tax money is always the answer. I believe the taxpayers in the 41st District are looking for someone who's vigilant about finding ways to cut waste and protect tax dollars - not a big spender who treats them like an ATM machine.

In my experience developing budgets at the township level, instead of simply raising taxes, we did what every household does + we looked at our expenses and income and then prioritized our spending. With some courage and concerted effort, our township is now on very solid financial footing. State government should be operated the same way.

CREATING OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR SMALL BUSINESSES

I heartily subscribe to Reagan's great principle that more opportunity can flourish when government gets out of the way. Reducing burdensome regulations for businesses is the absolute key to job growth and a more stable tax base.

I want to work with those in Harrisburg who know that our small businesses are the engine of job creation and innovation. To restore security and prosperity to Pennsylvania's economy, we must work to empower our small businesses.

DEALING WITH THE PUBLIC PENSION PROBLEM

Pennsylvania is facing a huge and looming financial problem + the public pension liability. Currently, the projected public pension liability is approximately $47 billion. All levels of the system - including pensions for legislators - need reform. The near-term impact on our school districts is figuring out how to deal with a 17-21% increase in costs + not even counting the annual increase in costs. The reasons for why we are where we are today are many, but one thing is for certain, the crushing tax bill is quickly coming due and the time to act is now.

ENSURING SCHOOLS ARE FISCALLY AND ACADEMICALLY STRONG

Education ranks just behind public welfare as the second largest state budget expenditure. I've spent nearly my entire career in public education. This experience puts me in a unique position to speak not only to sound education policies that work, but also to effective school funding + and how students can truly benefit the most from dollars spent.

PUSHING FOR MORE REFORM IN STATE GOVERNMENT

There have been some valuable actions in increasing transparency in state government spending but I believe continued attention to reform is needed. I will support reforms to spending practices in the Legislature + especially in negating automatic pay raises and reforming the per diem reimbursement process. I won't take the perks and per diems. I will lead by example by paying for my own cell phone and paying for my own mileage. And you shouldn't have to guess about what I'm spending in my own operation - I will post all of my legislative expenses online.

CONTINUING THE TRADITION OF EXCELLENT CONSTITUENT SERVICE

Our former Representative, Katie True, and current Representative, Ryan Aument, both have gone the extra mile to ensure that constituents with a state government-related issue get the help that they seek. I intend to make sure that constituent service remains a top priority.