To The Editor,
I am often asked what I mean when I say Harrisburg must be held accountable. Where to start is a better question. There are a lot of areas where this applies but let’s start with one of the easiest to identify. I want to end the practice of paying per diems to our legislators for the days that they are in Harrisburg. (Per diems are a daily food and lodging expense allowance that is made available to lawmakers who must travel more than 50 miles to Harrisburg or an event.)
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures PA Representatives were provided a per diem of $159 per day in 2015. Receipts are not required to receive this payment, so spending less than the per diem rate means they can pocket the difference.
Legislators should be reimbursed for their legitimate expenses that are properly filed. That is what is done in business and that is what should be done in Harrisburg. Instead, some legislators use per diems as a way to boost their salaries at taxpayer expense. I do not believe that is serving the people of Pennsylvania ethically or with integrity. I want to hold Harrisburg accountable and so, if I am elected, I will join with other legislators who are working to move legislation that requires legislators to submit receipts and be reimbursed for those expenses. I will also post my monthly expenses on my legislative website for the public to see, holding me accountable as well.
Susan Rzucidlo
Candidate PA House
158th District
New Garden
