Candidate for
State Representative; Pennsylvania State House of Representatives; District 194; Democratic Party

Fiscal Responsibility

We are living in the toughest economic times many of us have ever seen. Fiscal responsibility is not an option, it is a must. Yet, the call for fiscal responsibility must not be used to increase taxes on those who are already struggling or to cut successful programs upon which many, especially the most vulnerable, depend. Instead, our leaders must continually work to make our government more efficient. In my thirty years of experience, I consistently developed and implemented creative strategies to deliver high quality and cost effective services, including services for many lower-income seniors. I will bring that experience to Harrisburg and ensure the same result for the people of the 194th.

Government Ethics

Serving the public is an awesome responsibility and tremendous honor. Unfortunately, the recent indictments and convictions of several current and former Pennsylvania legislators are a sobering reminder that too many of our leaders in Harrisburg are more interested in keeping their jobs than in serving the people who elected them. I support meaningful reforms to change Harrisburg's culture, such as campaign finance reform, term limits, and increasing government transparency.

I am interviewing for this position because I believe I have the skills and experience to solve the problems we face and help to create a prosperous future for Pennsylvania. If elected, I will always remember why I am in Harrisburg -- to serve the people of the 194th with honesty and integrity.

Healthcare

The recent federal legislation signed by President Obama is a historic law that will curb insurance company abuses and improve access to quality healthcare. Nevertheless, the Pennsylvania legislature still has a vital role to play in continuing to improve the access to and the quality of healthcare for all, especially the most vulnerable. I am committed to ensuring that successful programs such as CHIP and Medicaid are properly regulated and fully funded.

Creating Viable and Stable Communities

Our strategy for crime prevention must focus on the root causes of crime -- the underfunding of our public education system. I support increasing state funding for local school districts in accordance with Pennsylvania's Costing-Out Study. This reform will produce many positive effects, including greater equity between school districts, decreased local tax burden, decreased costs associated with the criminal justice system, and improved quality of life in our communities.

Learning is lifelong. Unfortunately, many have learned this the hard way as they have lost their jobs of 20, 30, or more years and have had to learn a new skill set to remain competitive. Now more than ever, Pennsylvanians must have the opportunity to learn new trades and skills quickly and cost effectively. To achieve this end, I support well-funded and accessible community colleges and accelerated degree programs that partner with employers to prepare individuals to meet the demands of a changed economy.

Women's Issues

Pam believes strongly that a woman's right to choose is a personal decision left only to the woman making it.

Marriage Equality

Pam knows that all Pennsylvanians should have the right to pursue the happiness and contentment marriage can bring two people, therefore she fully supports marriage equality for members of the LGBT community.