With the deadline to adopt a state budget quickly approaching, Senator Joe Pittman will now have a seat on the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee that will play a key role in approving the spending plan. Audio
Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R-25) today appointed Senator Pittman to serve as a member of the Committee, which is tasked with reviewing all legislation for its fiscal impact. The Appropriations Committee also plays a crucial role in developing the state budget by June 30 each year.
“I am truly honored that Senator Scarnati appointed me to serve on the Appropriations Committee,” Senator Pittman said. “I look forward to working on the budget and ensuring that it meets the needs of the state in a responsible manner. We are fortunate in that we currently have a revenue surplus, but we must exercise prudence in how we use it. We must prepare for the next ‘rainy day’ that will inevitably occur.”
Appropriations Committee Chairman Pat Browne (R-16) noted Senator Pittman’s experience and welcomed him to the panel.
“As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I look forward to working with Senator Pittman as our committee focuses on budget related legislation and bills which have a fiscal impact on the Commonwealth,” Senator Browne said. “Senator Pittman’s knowledge of state government and the state’s finances from his work as Chief-of-Staff for former-Senator Don White will make him a valuable addition to the committee.”
In addition to the Appropriations Committee, Senator Scarnati appointed Senator Pittman to serve as Vice Chairman of the Environmental Resources & Energy Committee and as a member of four additional committees: Banking & Insurance, Communications & Technology, Game & Fisheries, and Judiciary.
“These are all great committee assignments,” Senator Pittman said. “Environmental Resources & Energy is especially important since it reviews legislation and policies that impact the coal, electric and shale gas industries. Those measures have a significant impact on many families across the 41st District.”
Contact: Carlton Logue clogue@pasen.gov