Several local lawmakers have been appointed as majority committee chairmen for the new legislative session.
Returning Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Republican Mike Turzai announced the appointments Wednesday.
Pa. State Rep. Representative Brian Ellis will chair the Consumer Affairs Committee; Rep. Daryl Metcalfe will lead the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee; Rep. Jim Marshall will head up the Gaming Oversight Committee; and Rep. Jeff Pyle will chair the Liquor Control Committee.
House committees study each bill that is proposed and then determine which will be advanced to the full House for consideration. Committees also conduct public hearings on key issues and serve as a resource for members and others.