January 3, 2007
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A Conversation with Senator Brubaker

2007-2008 session officially begins

On January 2, I officially began my term as state Senator for the 36^th District following the swearing-in ceremony in Harrisburg. I feel very privileged to have been elected to this position, and I embrace the opportunities and challenges that come with it. Because one of the greatest rewards in life is to serve others, I am looking forward to addressing the issues and providing the services that matter most to my constituents.

For instance, I pledge to work to improve our business climate, thereby encouraging employers to grow their businesses here, and by doing so provide more good, family-sustaining jobs. I will also work to ensure your tax dollars are being spent wisely, and that the government is taking only what is necessary to provide essential services. Further, I am committed to making our communities safer, providing a quality education for all students, and ensuring senior citizens' needs are being met.

Committee assignments made

Recently, I was honored to be named Chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee for 2007-2008. With my background in agriculture and with the importance agriculture has for my district and across Pennsylvania, I am very proud to have received this appointment.

In addition, I was named Vice Chairman of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee, which will address some very important and timely issues facing Pennsylvanians. I have also been appointed to serve on the Senate committees on Environmental Resources and Energy, Local Government, and State Government.

I am glad I can share my experiences with my colleagues and with the Commonwealth in these capacities. Each committee has its own unique issues, and I anticipate the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.

Senate takes lead on government reforms

Another of my priorities as a state Senator is to make our government more open to the public. Over the past few years, Pennsylvanians have raised many concerns with the way the General Assembly conducts its business, and the legislature is not only listening but responding as well.

To that end, I am very pleased that in the first week of this session, the Senate adopted changes to its rules that will make the Senate process more transparent. This bipartisan commitment includes limiting session times to the hours between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m., as well as a six-hour waiting period after a bill is amended or a conference committee report is issued before taking a vote.

Under the new rules, it will also be easier for the public to gain access to proposed amendments, roll call votes, committee votes and the full text of floor debates on the Internet. These are excellent first steps, and we will continue working in the future to address and respond to your concerns.

I want to hear from you

My door is always open for your questions and concerns about any issue related to the state government. Please feel free to contact me at my district office at 1248 W. Main Street, Ephrata, 738-1600, or via email at mbrubaker@pasen.gov, and be sure to check my web site, www.senatorbrubaker.com, for updates and pertinent information.