The members of the Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus today elected William Adolph (R-Delaware County) as Republican Appropriations Chairman for the rest of the 2009-2010 legislative session.

The Appropriations Committee position opened up upon the resignation of Rep. Mario Civera (R-Delaware County). Civera was elected to Delaware County Council and will be resigning from the House of Representatives.

“The message from the House Republican Caucus is clear: It is time to stop the unrestrained state spending,” House Republican Leader Sam Smith (R-Jefferson County) said.  “Our caucus will fight for the taxpayers and attack the abuse as state revenues continue to plummet.”

“The Legislature has to get serious about controlling spending,” Adolph said. “The Republican Appropriations Committee will keep an eye on expenditures and what agencies do with their tax dollars. State government should deliver, and taxpayers expect more out of each tax dollar.”

“Our unified House Republican Caucus will continue to lead the opposition to Governor Rendell’s and the House Democrats’ extra spending and tax hike proposals,” Turzai said. “We will be focused on making sure we protect the hard-earned dollars of Pennsylvania families and employers.”

The election took place today in the House Republican Caucus Room in the Main Capitol Building.

Adolph was first elected to represent Delaware County’s 165th Legislative District in 1988, and is now serving his 11th term. Adolph is chairman of the board of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; he resides in Springfield.

Representative Sam Smith

Republican Leader

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Contact:  Stephen Miskin (717) 787-3845

E-mail:     smiskin@pahousegop.com

Internet:  www.samsmithpahouse.com