Bonner hosts open session to discuss state legislation
SLIPPERY ROCK — A handful of constituents of the 17th legislative district gathered to learn from state Rep. Tim Bonner, R-17th, about a few topics currently being discussed in the General Assembly.
The legislative overview session was hosted Thursday, May 1, at the Slippery Rock borough building. About 10 or so residents, alongside a few borough officials, were in attendance.
“I’ve done this over a number of occasions, so this isn’t the first time,” Bonner said. “I just think the people have the right to listen and to hear and question their legislators, so I present that opportunity.”
Bonner discussed topics such as the state budget, school systems, legalization of marijuana and taxation of skill games. Between each topic, he opened the floor to take questions from his constituents.
For the budget, he explained that the current budget could dip into the state’s reserve funds, unless new methods of income are approved in tandem. The two largest of those new methods, taxes from legalized marijuana and skill games, are opposed by Bonner.
“Now, in the budget process, there’s a lot of give and take, and I expect there will be give and take on this budget,” Bonner said.
Bonner said his opposition to legalized marijuana is rooted in his findings while serving on the House Health committee. He said he believes it will ultimately cost the state more than it will make.
As for the taxation of skill games, Bonner said he personally opposes the state “making money off a vice,” but expects a tax to be set during the current session. He said the current debate in the General Assembly is over what rate of taxation is appropriate.
Bonner also mentioned to his constituents that it was challenging to pass Republican-backed legislation while the state House has a Democratic majority. He told attendees that both parties use this tactic and that he believes there’s a better way to run the legislature.
Bonner plans to host another legislative overview session at the Grove City borough building on Thursday, May 29.
