Lehigh Times

Senator Jarrett Coleman, representing Pennsylvania's 16th district, has been appointed to seven standing Senate committees for the 2025-26 legislative session. His roles include chairing the Intergovernmental Operations Committee and serving as vice chair of the Finance Committee. He will also participate in the Community, Economic and Recreational Development (CERD), Education, Game and Fisheries, Urban Affairs and Housing, and Appropriations Committees.

Coleman emphasized the importance of committees in evaluating legislation. "After a bill is drafted, it moves to the appropriate committee for review. Committees play a critical role in assessing the merits of the legislation and whether it warrants moving to the full Senate for consideration," he stated. Coleman further expressed his commitment to supporting beneficial legislation while opposing those that do not serve Pennsylvanians' interests: "As a committee member, I will always vote with the goal of returning government to the people – blocking bad bills and supporting those that would improve Pennsylvanians’ lives."

Each committee has specific responsibilities within its domain. The Appropriations Committee focuses on fiscal impact assessments and state budget negotiations. The CERD Committee collaborates with state departments on business growth initiatives through grant and loan programs.

The Education Committee addresses issues such as school safety, funding, and post-secondary opportunities. The Finance Committee handles changes to tax codes including potential tax adjustments.

The Intergovernmental Operations Committee is tasked with reviewing proposals aimed at restructuring state government operations.

Working alongside state commissions, the Game and Fisheries Committee manages natural resources related to hunting, fishing, and conservation activities.

Finally, the Urban Affairs and Housing Committee deals with urban development matters including public housing and land management.

For more information or inquiries about these assignments or Coleman's legislative agenda during this session, contact Leo Knepper at 717-787-1349.