State Capitol Roundup: Questionable LCB Deal

Here's this week's State Capitol Roundup courtesy of state Rep. Bob Mensch, R-147:

Questionable LCB Deal Illustrates Need for Real Contract Reform

The recent award of a state contract to the husband of a top Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) manager barely scratches the surface of the administration's contract problems, according to House Republicans. Aside from questioning the need for such "courtesy" training at this difficult economic time, lawmakers are concerned about how the contract came to be awarded to the connected company. Even Gov. Ed Rendell has called for an investigation and confirmed he would support GOP legislation to bring about much-needed contract reform. House Republicans have been pressing for contract reform for the past two years, citing numerous loopholes in state law that have been used to dole out millions in no-bid contracts to well-connected individuals and firms. For more information, visit PAHouseGOP.com and click on "Reform in State Contacts."

Lawmakers Express Concern Over Federal Stimulus Dollars

At a House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee hearing this week, House Republican lawmakers continued to ask questions and raise concerns about how the Rendell administration plans to spend the state's share of federal economic stimulus dollars. As the state weathers a $2.5 billion deficit, many worry that stimulus funds are being proposed to fill budget holes or create new programs, rather than invested in shovel-ready projects that can create jobs for Pennsylvanians. The administration's plan to spend the federal monies could force tax increases when the stimulus funds run out. Because of this, persistent calls for a strong system of accounting for expenditures must not be ignored. House Republicans are committed to a prospering economy and business development, not bigger government. For details, visit PAHouseGOP.com, and click on "State Budget News."

GOP Lawmaker Introduces Legislation to Fight Compulsive Gambling

Legislation to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of revenue distribution from the State Gaming Fund for compulsive gambling addiction prevention and treatment programs is slated for introduction by State Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong). If enacted, the legislation would direct resources to existing gambling addiction treatment programs at the Department of Health and to grants provided by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB). The proposal is part of a coordinated effort to fix, clarify and focus the state's Gaming Law and the PGCB by House Republicans. In the coming weeks, several other bills will be introduced by various lawmakers to close the numerous loopholes in the 2004 gaming expansion law.