Metcalfe

HARRISBURG — Cranberry Township State Rep. Daryl Metcalfe of Cranberry Township got some unexpected visitors Monday and today.

Demonstrators sat in Metcalfe's office at the state capitol building to protest lack of movement on a gift-ban bill.

The bill has been before the House State Government Committee, of which Metcalfe is chairman, since January.

Pennsylvania Capitol Police arrested five demonstrators Monday after refusing to leave the office of Metcalfe.

A Capitol Police spokesman said they're being charged with disorderly conduct, a summary offense. He also said that protestors arrested two consecutive days will be charged with defiant trespassing, a misdemeanor.

A total of 23 protestors were arrested over the two days.

The legislation, House Bill 570, states that no public officer or candidate may receive a gift worth more than $50 in gifts from a lobbyist, lobbying firm or principal in a calendar year.

It also states that no public officer or candidate may receive more than $500 for hospitality from a lobbyist, lobbying firm or principal in a calendar year.

The bill includes some exceptions, such as gifts from family and friends.

Metcalfe could not immediately be reached for comment.