Now that leaders in Harrisburg have publicized their annual legislative agenda, the big question is “what will actually get done”?
Every January, we see these stories about the ambitious and packed legislative agenda. And then every December, we realize that nothing got done. So does this agenda matter? I don’t think so and I’m inclined to believe that millions of Pennsylvania voters agree. The state legislature is widely (and correctly) seen a dysfunctional body who spend a great deal of time and taxpayer money accomplishing little.
With that in mind, here’s my Harrisburg Wishlist for 2008. Sure, I could write a pie-in-the-sky list of my utopian government, but instead this list is purposely geared toward the complete lack of legislative ambition demonstrated over the past few years.
Without further ado, here’s what I’d like to see Harrisburg accomplish this year:
- Legalize table games at the casinos. I know this sounds funny coming from me since I’m opposed to the casinos. But the casinos are here to stay, so we might as well be a big time player. It’s inevitable, so bite the bullet now.
- Pass the budget on time. Let’s not have a replay of last year’s one-day furlough. Do your job and stop embarrassing yourselves.
- Energy conservation initiative. Despite Republican opposition to Governor Rendell’s $5 a year tax, it would be nice to see some sort of compromise on energy conservation.
Here’s what I’ve left off this list, mostly because I don’t believe the legislative willpower exists to actually get it done:
- Open Records Law. I’m gonna catch some flak for this one, I’m sure. People and pundits around the state will say that this “just didn’t make it in last year,” but will in 2008. Perhaps, but I think it’s more likely that this becomes more like the next item on my list.
- Public Smoking Ban. Do you know when we started covering this issue and how long it’s been a “legislative priority”? 2004. That’s right, we’ve been covering it for four years and it hasn’t happened; that’s how slow Harrisburg moves. What’s to say this year will be any different?
- Healthcare. I know Governor Rendell is pushing this, but honestly I don’t think Democrats are powerful enough to get it done and Republicans aren’t motivated enough to compromise. Is it DOA?
Good News!... and some bad
The budget will be completed on time considering that we are in an election year, as very few Legislators would like to create an 07 replay and give an opponent that kind of ammunitation. Also, I believe table games have a legitimate chance since consumer demand is as high as it was for slots gaming, and property tax relief will again be a critical election issue. Failure on the part of the Senate to deliver an acceptable Opens Records law is too costly and extemely risky for our Senators. Unfortunately, I agree that the pressing issues of Energy and Healthcare are too ambitious at this time. However, I would offer an alternative reason as to why; slim Democratic majority in the House, Republican controlled Senate, and Democratic Governor. The ideological differences in these areas alone are going to make it a difficult road. Couple this fact with the newly enacted House rules which have intentionally slowed the legislative process, and it apprears that Pennsylvanians must be patient to get an agreeable legislative product in these areas. Finally, I wholeheartedly agree with you that a Public Smoking is long over-do. I don’t believe there is a legimate arguement to the contrary. Great post, I’d be interested to see other KPers analysis. Emphasis on the word ANALYSIS... please reframe from posting negative comments about the Governor, Legislature, or Agencies… we’ve covered it already.
Harrisburg "accomplishments"
That’s a good instinct about the budget, though I’ve seen these guys mess up enough to know that it’s not for sure. They’ll probably compromise, but the compromise will be “let’s do nothing” rather than a substantive one.
I’m not sure the slowed House procedures are making the difference here. I think it’s rather that Democrats and Republicans refuse to compromise; and you’re right, that’s a function of the slim majority. But in the end, don’t we pay them to compromise and work together? We don’t pay the majority to roll over the minority, nor do we pay the minority to simply be obstructionists.
The Legislature will
The Legislature will certainly compromise, since they compromise each year a budget is passed. Also, a “let’s do nothing” approach is unlikely considering the approaching elections. However, I will add, if the “let’s do nothing” approach does prevail after the upcoming property tax debates, it will not sit well with the electorate.
If the newly enacted House Rules were not in effect (I am not suggesting that they should not be… it is an excellent reform), an Opens Records bill would likely be completed, as the Senate would have a suitable number of session days remaining to get it done before recess (not to mention the level of public pressure they would have endured). However, imagine not having a standard period of time to review the bill for yourself prior to its acceptance.
Finally, you are correct. The people send their legislator to Harrisburg to get things done. The members that truly understand their position realize that they must work with the other side to find a middle of the road approach to policy. Act 44 is an example of Republican and Democratic members coming together to find the middle ground on an issue. As you may recall, there was absolutely no political will to lease the Turnpike, increase the gas tax or other motor vehicle fees. Unfortunately, the rhetoric of polorized politics, which is so entrenched in Washington, is being to take a solid hold in Harrisburg; limiting the number of legislators willing exercise the concept of compromise.
Time will Tell
I see more media attention around the ‘Bonus Gate.’ There will be a lot of time dedicated to delivering something of substance, and it seems property tax will take center stage. Rather than focus on next election, we need to focus on the next two years. With the economy slowing nationwide, PA needs to take steps to absorb any major impact. We need more businesses and jobs in the area, and less money taken out of our paycheck.
-Michael Grant
Bonusgate isn't over
I sincerely doubt that we’ve heard the last about Bonusgate. DeWeese threw his staffers under the bus to save his own skin, but I have a hard time believing that senior staff were sitting around doing this with no knowledge by elected officials.
And what was Mike Veon’s role in all of this? Voters ousted him but he still may have had some involvement.
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