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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 3, 2007

Senator Browne Begins New Four-Year Term
Receives committee assignments for 2007-08 Legislative Session

With the swearing-in ceremony now over, state Senator Pat Browne begins his first four-year term representing the 16th Senatorial District in what he expects to be a very active legislative session.

"I believe the 2007-08 Legislative Session will be very active as we work to address the important issues facing the Commonwealth and its residents," Senator Browne said. "Pennsylvania is at a crossroads. We must evaluate the state's many programs and services to ensure that they are delivered in a fiscally responsible manner and are in the best interests of the people they serve and the taxpayers who pay for them. We must continue taking steps to improve safety and the quality of life in our communities."

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati named Senator Browne Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee for the 2007-08 Legislative Session. Senator Browne's Committee has the primary responsibility of reviewing legislation addressing tax issues.

"Pat Browne, with his knowledge of tax laws and accounting practices, was an obvious choice to serve as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee," Senator Scarnati said. "His experience in tax issues is an asset that will benefit the Senate and the people we serve."

As Chairman, Senator Browne will work to make Pennsylvania a more competitive state and to find ways to bring more jobs to and keep more jobs in the Commonwealth.

"I am looking forward to this challenge and the responsibility it entails," Senator Browne said. "We need to look for ways to make Pennsylvania more competitive. We must also find ways to promote business opportunities that lead to job creation and we must look at new and innovative ways to raise revenue, especially within existing state departments."

Senator Browne will also serve as Vice Chairman of the Senate Urban Affairs and Housing Committee and as a member of the Appropriations, Education, and Judiciary committees.

"I am very pleased with these assignments," Senator Browne said. "The issues that come before Urban Affairs and Housing are ones that impact the lives of residents of Allentown. I look forward to serving as vice chairman of that committee. I am also looking forward to serving on the Appropriations Committee, which reviews the state budget, as well as the Education and Judiciary committees."

 
Contact:

Matt Moyer
(610) 821-8468