Posted: | February 11, 2021 12:46 PM |
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From: | Representative Melissa L. Shusterman |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Ensuring a Smooth and Transparent Transition of Office |
The basis of our democracy relies on the ability of voters to elect representatives and senators to represent them and their beliefs. This process oftentimes leads to a change in the political parties of elected officials in the legislative districts they represent. Although a shift in political affiliation may occur, it is our duty, as members of the General Assembly, to remember we were elected to serve every Pennsylvania citizen and not only the ones that voted us into office. When we leave our office, whether by our choice or the voters’, it is in the best interest of our districts that there is a smooth transition of power between legislators. As every elected official has experienced, the beginning of one’s first term is full of learning new information about the district and its residents. The process of gathering constituent service lists and updated contact information takes up time and energy that could be spent in other ways that better serve the district. To help create a smooth and transparent transition process, I am introducing legislation that will require outgoing state legislators to share constituent information with the incoming legislator. Sharing such important information will ensure we, as elected officials, are immediately working to serve our constituents and not focusing on finding information the previous legislator had already established. Please join me in showing the Pennsylvania citizens that although our party affiliations may differ, our ultimate goal is the same: to serve them. |
Introduced as HB1320