Legislative Year in Review

January 8, 2018

By Rep. Steve Mentzer (R-Lititz)
During the first half of the 2017-18 legislative session, the House advanced a number of important bills that seek to improve education, make our communities safer, enhance quality of life for families and senior citizens, and reform government – all while standing up for taxpayers.

At the top of the list for many residents is the constitutional amendment that was approved by voters statewide in November. In short, the measure expands Local Taxing Districts’ Ability to Enact Homestead Exclusions by amending the state Constitution to allow local taxing authorities to exclude from taxation up to 100 percent of the assessed value of the homestead property receiving the exclusion.

In addition, the House passed a no-tax increase budget, approved legislation to reform the public pension systems; force public officials and employees who are convicted of public corruption crimes to forfeit their government pension; keep children safe from online predators; extend the popular and successful Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP); protect senior citizens’ prescription drug coverage; and delay the implementation of the Keystone Exam as a graduation requirement.

Looking ahead to 2018, the House is coordinating a legislative agenda focusing on work and economic opportunity, educating for success, government reform, and protecting families and communities.

To review a list of bills passed by the House, visit pahousegop.com to read our year-end report.