Commission Hears Proposals to Save Commonwealth Billions

Technology and Criminal Justice Panels Focus of Hearing

HARRISBURG – The Senate Government Management and Cost Study Commission heard testimony today from TechQuest PA representatives, as well as representatives in the criminal justice, education and finance sectors, according to its Chairman, State Senator David G. Argall (R-29).

Those testifying presented strategies aimed at saving the Commonwealth more than $2 billion. Representing TechQuest PA were Chairman Michael L. Hund, Esq., McNees, Wallace & Nurick, LLC, of Harrisburg; Gary Johnson, Continuous Improvement, Product Change Management, The Hershey Company, of Hershey; and Chris Meehan, an executive with SAS, a global leader in efficiency and performance analytics software and services headquartered in Carey, NC.

"We suggest that continuous improvement processes need to be managed outside the political cycle to be effective." Mr. Meehan noted. "Tactical questions, like fraud and evasion, can be eliminated by applying existing and widely used technology and competency analytics."

"As the Commonwealth faces another daunting year financially, we need to examine every avenue to save dollars," said Argall. "This budget crisis is requiring elected officials, business owners and homeowners alike to approach their finances differently. The suggestions heard today are very helpful," Argall added.

Also presenting testimony during the public hearing were Jean Bickmire, Administrative and Legislative Director Justice & Mercy, Inc.; Richard Dieter, Executive Director Death Penalty Information Center; Sharon Ward, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Budget & Policy Center for The Keystone Research Center; and Ronald Cowell, President, Education Policy and Leadership Center.

The Commission is tasked with identifying new ways to cut state spending. A final report will be presented to the Senate by June 30.