HARRISBURG – Today, the Senate Appropriation Committee unanimously passed bipartisan legislation to reform the way the lieutenant governor is elected in Pennsylvania.
Senate Bill 761 would amend the state’s constitution to allow gubernatorial candidates to select their running mate subsequent to the primary election, which is a process similar to how presidential candidates currently select their vice presidential running mates.
Senator David G. Argall (R-Berks/Schuylkill), the prime sponsor of the bill, noted that this type of change to the current election process allows for better leadership and collaboration. “I am pleased that my colleagues recognize that a dysfunctional relationship between our current governor and lieutenant governor is not only embarrassing, but is detrimental to Pennsylvania’s citizens who expect our leaders to work with one another on a shared vision that will strengthen Pennsylvania,” said Argall.
The bill will now mover to the full Senate for consideration. The earliest it could go into effect is 2022, since the constitution requires that it be approved in two consecutive sessions of the General Assembly and then approved by popular vote. Should the measure pass, Pennsylvania would join thirteen other states that allow the candidate for governor to select the candidate for lieutenant governor.
Contact: Mary Beth Dougherty
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