York County News

The Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill aimed at enhancing oversight and transparency for state agency leaders, a move supported by Senators Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-28) and Cris Dush (R-25). The legislation emphasizes the need for Senate confirmation of appointees to ensure public involvement.

Senator Phillips-Hill expressed concern over unelected individuals serving extended terms without Senate approval, stating, "When unelected individuals are allowed to serve for months or even years without a single vote by the Senate, it shuts the public out of the process." She emphasized that the bill aims to align practices with the Pennsylvania Constitution.

The issue arose from the previous administration's practice of appointing leaders in an "acting" capacity without Senate nomination. This included 21 cabinet officials serving over 90 days without confirmation. Specific cases highlighted include Meg Snead, Dr. Wendy Braund, George Little, and Leigh Chapman, who led significant departments without formal approval.

Senator Dush highlighted the lack of constitutional checks for "acting secretaries," pointing to their uninterrupted executive authority and compensation. He stated, "Especially under Pennsylvania’s most recent governors, 'acting secretaries' have operated departments without the constitutional checks and balances of Senate confirmation for indefinite, unchecked periods of time."

Senate Bill 472 proposes formal guidelines for leaders awaiting confirmation, designating them as "Deputy – Head of Department." These individuals must appear before the General Assembly during the budget process and are restricted from serving indefinitely or receiving additional benefits. The bill seeks to align leadership roles with constitutional intent and public scrutiny.

The bill now advances to the House of Representatives for further consideration.