Bill McIntyre

Email:  mcintyreb@verizon.net

 

June 21, 2008

 

To:  The Pennsylvania Legislature

Subject:  Eight Days

 

Dear Senators & Representatives,

 

                Upon your return on Monday, June 23^rd, eight (8) days will remain in June 2008.  Welcome back to Harrisburg!  There are many issues before you and many can be delayed and addressed after your summer vacation that should begin on Tuesday, July 1, 2008.   Why not start Monday, June 30^th!

 

                Two issues cannot be delayed – REDISTRICTING & BUDGET!  Yes, I listed first and place more importance on redistricting than the budget.  The budget will eventually get passed for another year as it does every year.  Redistricting must be done now or we must wait ten (10) more years for true government reform. 

 

                I realize that I’ve used a naughty word to some of you – REFORM.  It might shock some of you that the voters should select those who represent us in Harrisburg; not those holding office selecting the voters as is presently done.

 

                I appeal to Rep. Babette Josephs, House State Government Committee Chairperson, to release House Bill 2420 as the first order of business for an up or down vote on Monday, June 23, 2008.  The same plea is extended to Sen. Anthony Williams on Senate Bill 346.  We will then learn who is representing the electorate or just the elected.

 

                It is either ending gerrymandering or reducing the size of the General Assembly.  Both would serve a similar purpose in obtaining redistricting.

 

                Some may say there isn’t enough time; but that’s just an excuse.  It’s been proven by many of you that when you want something – you can act very fast.  The proof of that is how rapidly the infamous pay raise was passed in 2005, three long years ago.  Reform was to have happened after its repeal.  What happened?  We’re still awaiting true reform three years later.

 

                I quote “my friend” House Majority Leader Rep. Bill DeWeese – “The important thing is bring some extra undergarments.”  He was inferring that it might take 7 – 10 days in Harrisburg to finish the “peoples business” before returning home and vacation.

 

                Pass HB 2420 and SB 346 on Monday; debate the budget Tuesday thru Thursday and pass it on Friday; then go home.  You have proven it can be done!  Have a wonderful summer vacation and we’ll await your return in September. 

                                                                                      
                                                                                       Best wishes,

 

                                                                                       Bill McIntyre

                                                                                       Wishing all an enjoyable summer

 

CC:  Executive Branch of PA Government

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