PA has the largest/most expensive but worse rated legislature in the Nation. Reducing its bloated size and cost is a good idea, but not a new idea. In fact, it’s been around for decades.
But… it never happens.
Pennsylvania House leaders tout, then ignore, bill to cut its size.
Why?
Pennsylvania has some of the highest property taxes in the Nation.
Property tax reform is a great idea, but not a new idea. In fact, MANY proposals have been floated for decades.
But… none ever get passed.
Pa. Senate votes to reject measure to scrap property taxes
Why?
PA has an antiquated prevailing wage that drives up costs for local governments.
At the very minimum, the threshold which hasn’t been touched in 40 years should be increased. After decades of inaction, this at a minimum should be a no-brainer.
But… it doesn’t.
Pennsylvania’s Prevailing Wage Law. Not updated since 1961
Why?
People often seek office for the right reasons. But once they get in, something happens. They become politicians. Well-intentioned folks become unwilling or unable to get basic items passed. The problem is compounded in our state because Reps serve 2-year terms. In PA representatives never stop campaigning and get stuck inside the Harrisburg bubble.
The Answer? – #TERMLIMITSNOW
The single essential good government reform. The one that can break the back of the incumbency machine that both parties indulge in.
Term Limits ensure that no individual can focus more on keeping a job or attaining power than representing and serving the public. When public officials know, that they only have the opportunity to serve in one position for a limited amount of time, they become more willing to make the tough but necessary decisions.
Professional politicians like to talk about the value of experience in government. Nuts! The only experience you gain in politics is how to be political. – Ronald Reagan
