In keeping a pledge that helped send her to the Capitol, state Rep. RoseMarie Swanger (R-Lebanon) cast a "no" vote on the transportation bill that passed in the House Tuesday.
 
"My constituents sent me here to curb spending and stand against tax increases," said Swanger.  "The bill includes Interstate 80 being tolled, which is a user fee whose revenue will go for something other than the road itself. That's the definition of a tax."
 
While I-80 does not run through Lebanon County, Swanger said her constituents have told her they are against tolling the road, a procedure that has yet to receive federal approval.
 
House Bill 1590 also allows for a 10 percent tax in Allegheny County on alcohol and car rentals.
 
"It is simple," she added. "A vote for the bill is a vote for a tax."  
 
Swanger's concerns about the bill extend to repair of roads and bridges in the 102nd District.
 
"Those of us in southcentral Pennsylvania have no idea what projects are included," said Swanger. "What we do know is we again are being asked to bail out Philadelphia and Pittsburgh transit systems, while support for County of Lebanon Transit Authority (COLT) remains an afterthought."
 
The House voted to concur with the Senate bill, sending it to Gov. Ed Rendell’s desk for signature.
 
Rep. RoseMarie Swanger
102nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(717) 277-2101
(717) 787-2686
Contact:  Scott B. Little
slittle@pahousegop.com
(717) 260-6137
Member Site:  RepSwanger.com
Caucus Site:  PAHouseGOP.com