The newest member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives has received her committee assignments for the current legislative session.
Newly sworn-in Republican Marci Mustello of Butler Township will serve on the House Commerce, Human Services, Tourism and Recreational Development, and Agriculture and Rural Affairs committees. Mustello is serving her first term in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives after assuming office following a May 2019 special election.
“I’m pleased to work on these committees and the related issues impacting our communities,” Mustello said. “Before any bill comes to the House floor, it must be reviewed and refined at the committee level. This is where the real legwork is done in the legislative process.”
The Commerce Committee is responsible for originating legislation and overseeing programs, which impact Pennsylvania companies. The committee has primary jurisdiction over corporate governance through the business corporation law, as well as regulation of offers of sale and credit through such statutes as the Goods and Services Installment Sales Act, the Unfair Sales Act, and the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act.
The Human Services Committee has oversight of issues within the Department of Human Services and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs. Among the issues it has dealt with include legislation to address the heroin and opioid overdose crisis by trying to prevent these powerful drugs from getting into the wrong hands. The committee will continue to convene hearings regarding the delivery of human services throughout the Commonwealth and the challenges faced by individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, along with those need mental health services and drug and alcohol treatment.
“Addiction touches people of all ages, genders and socioeconomic status,” Mustello said. “One of my top priorities will be to work with community, state and federal leaders to combat this crisis and save lives.”
The Tourism and Recreational Development Committee considers issues including travel and tourism promotion; the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; scenic roadways; snowmobile and trail-related initiatives; amusement parks, fairs, carnivals and folk festivals; agritourism; hotel and lodging issues; recreation use of land and water; PA Wilds and many others.
The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee deals with an array of legislation directly affecting the state’s farmers and farming operations. It also handles issues impacting the timber industry, horse and harness racing regulation, food safety and restaurant inspections, Dog Law enforcement and kennel licensure, the use of pesticides, and the administration of state-funded programs to promote agriculture in Pennsylvania.
“My committee assignments will keep me busy,” Mustello said. “I am eager to get to work and make sure all my constituents are represented in the best way.”
