HARRISBURG – Senate Health and Human Services Committee Chair Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20th) issued the following statement regarding Gov. Wolf’s proposal to consolidate the Departments of Aging, Drug and Alcohol Programs, Health, and Human Services into one department:
“Any idea to increase accountability in state government deserves a serious, thorough review.
Unlike the recent prison closure decision, state legislators have a direct say in whether, when, and how this plan takes place. Community input is again very important. Because of the considerable long-range operational and financial implications, my intent is for the Senate to give this proposal a full airing. Advocates and detractors should have the chance to present their case.
Nearly all the programs in these departments have been struggling to secure sufficient resources to cope with the growing needs across the Commonwealth’s communities. If this consolidation can be shown to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency, then those who depend on human services and local providers will come out ahead.
Obviously, the opioid crisis is a complicating factor that will weigh heavily in assessing the Wolf plan, because Pennsylvania cannot afford to have the remedies being developed to be delayed or diminished in any substantial way.”
Andrew M. Seder
District Communications/Constituent Services for Pike and Wayne Counties
Office of Senator Lisa Baker
2512 Route 6
Hawley, PA 18428
(570) 226-5960
aseder@pasen.gov
www.senatorbaker.com