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Politics & Government

State Sen. Leach Addresses Lower Merion Commissioners

The state senator representing Lower Merion said the state tops the nation for unsafe bridges.

Pennsylvania has the highest number of unsafe bridges and unmaintained roads in the nation and the state is currently facing a $25 million revenue shortfall, State Sen. Daylin Leach (D-17, Montgomery/Delaware counties) told the Lower Merion Board of Commissioners on Wednesday night.

Leach gave the board an update on what is happening in Harrisburg when he spoke during a public comment portion of the meeting and answered commissioners’ questions. Leach said he tries to come before all the boards in the townships he represents.

State legislatures will be addressing the issue of state transportation funding during the next few weeks, Leach said.

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Pennsylvania has “,” Leach said.

The state will be focusing on how to fund repairs and maintenance, and public transportation “will be less of a priority” Leach said, in responses to a question from Commissioner George Manos.

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Commissioner Lewis Gould asked Leach what the current revenue receipts are for the state.

Leach said there is currently a $250 million revenue shortfall, compared to what was originally projected by the governor’s office.

Gould asked how the state will deal with the shortfall.

Leach said there are two options when there is a shortfall: find additional revenue or make additional cuts.

Leach also talked about plans for state legislative redistricting.

Leach said he believes there will be a change in Lower Merion in regards to congressional representation, but when it comes to the state senate, he will still be representing Lower Merion Township. 

Leach said he will also be picking up representation of 12,000 people in Philadelphia.

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