Waugh Appointed to Pennsylvania Stimulus Oversight Commission

HARRISBURG – Sen. Mike Waugh (R-York) has been appointed by Senator Dominic Pileggi, Majority Leader, to represent the Senate Republican Caucus on the Governor's Pennsylvania Stimulus Oversight Commission, which convened its first meeting today.

On Friday, March 27th, Governor Rendell signed an executive order calling for the creation of the Commission, which is comprised of one representative from each of the four state legislative caucuses, a representative from each Congressional caucus, and designees for U.S. Senators Robert Casey and Arlen Specter, among others.

"It is a great honor to have been chosen to serve on the Stimulus Oversight Commission," said Waugh.  "I look forward to working together with the other members to ensure proper use of the stimulus funds that Pennsylvania is receiving from the Federal government."

At a press conference today Rendell announced the appointment of Ronald J. Naples of Montgomery County as Chairman of the Governor's Working Group for Stimulus Accountability and Chief Accountability Officer for Pennsylvania's share of Federal stimulus funds.  Immediately following the press conference the Stimulus Oversight Commission convened its first meeting.

"Considering it was our first meeting we had a good discussion, but we have a lot of work ahead of us," said Waugh.  "While the Federal stimulus funds have potential to assist the Commonwealth, those dollars will only prove beneficial if they are utilized in a fiscally responsible manner."

Senate Republicans want to ensure that stimulus funds are maximized to address current deficits and revenue shortfalls, as well as to stimulate the economy, create and preserve jobs, and protect taxpayers.  They further believe it is important to avoid the permanent expansion or creation of programs and benefits, which could place additional costs on the Commonwealth and its taxpayers.