State Capitol Roundup for August 15

Here's the weekly State Capitol Roundup courtesy of state Rep. Bob Mensch, R-47th District:

Transportation Committee to Continue Hearings on Public Private Partnerships

State legislators will hear testimony in a pair of public hearings next week by the House Transportation Committee to examine the feasibility of public-private partnerships (P3s) for mass transit and look at safety issues surrounding the increased use of bicycles and motor scooters. Monday's hearing will focus on GOP legislation from the House and Senate enabling the use of P3s. House Bill 555 and Senate Bill 1158, which are sponsored by Rep. Rick Geist (R-Altoona) and Sen. Roger Madigan (R-23), will be discussed. P3s would help meet the state's transportation needs by establishing contractual arrangements between public agencies and private-sector entities to deliver public services. Tuesday's hearing will focus on safety concerns raised by the increased use of bicycles and motor scooters as a result of the high cost of gasoline. Both events will occur at the state Capitol in Harrisburg.

Insurance Committee Hears Testimony on Health Care Reform Initiatives

Testimony regarding health care reform proposals and the reauthorization of the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) was offered this week during a pair of hearings held by the House Insurance Committee. Participants spoke out against the Democrat Access to Basic Care (ABC) plan and why it may not be the best plan for the Commonwealth. Chief among legislators' concerns is a $120 million budget gap in what is likely to be another tough budget year. A second hearing focused on PHC4. All of the members and testifiers agreed that the agency must be renewed. House Republicans took the opportunity to discuss legislation sponsored by Rep. Jerry Stern (R-Blair), which would expand the already vital role the agency plays in keeping health care costs manageable and extend its authorization until 2011. For more information on important health care initiatives, visit HealthCareforPAFamilies.com

Property Tax-Rent Rebate Filing Deadline Extended

The deadline to file for the state's Property Tax/Rent Rebate program has been extended from June 30 to Dec. 31. Eligible participants can receive a rebate of up to $650 based on their rent or property taxes paid in 2007. The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians who are 65 years or older, widows and widowers 50 years or older, and those 18 years or older with disabilities. Homeowners and renters making between $0 and $15,000 are eligible to receive between $500 and $650 in rebates while homeowners making between $15,001 and $35,000 are eligible to receive between $250 and $300. Recently released figures show that more than 515,000 claims have been filed for this year's rebates. For more information visit your state legislator's Web site.