Senator White Begins Second Term

Just after noon today, Don White was sworn into office, beginning his second term as the official advocate for the nearly 250,000 residents in the 41st Senatorial District.

Swearing-In Day is traditionally filled with pomp and ceremony in Harrisburg, but Senator White is already gearing up for the legislative work ahead as the business of the 2005-06 Legislative Session gets underway later this month.

His goals for the Session are based on what he learned during his first four-year term, Senator White said.

"We must continue to do the people's work here at home. During my first term, it became clear to me that the most important and rewarding part of a legislator's job is working to improve the home district," Senator White said. "We've accomplished much over the previous four years, but we aren't finished. More than anything, I want to continue our efforts to restore the economic prosperity our area once knew."

Specifically, Senator White cited property tax relief and health care issues as top priorities for his legislative agenda.

"In addition, we must maintain fiscal discipline in Harrisburg. It's no secret that the key to a thriving economy is to encourage private investment and spending," Senator White said. "I firmly believe in efficient government and that government has a fundamental responsibility to spend our tax dollars wisely. That ultimately means keeping taxes as low as possible so you can keep what you earn."

Senator White will continue to serve as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness and as Vice Chairman of the Community and Economic Development Committee during the 2005-06 Legislative Session. He is also a member of three other Senate Committees: Banking and Insurance; Environmental Resources and Energy; and Transportation.