Brown to Introduce Legislation Strengthening Local Government Transparency and Accountability

HARRISBURG - Sen. Rosemary M. Brown (R-40) will be introducing legislation to strengthen public confidence in local government by establishing a waiting period for municipal elected officials seeking paid employment within the same municipality after leaving office.

Brown emphasized that her office consistently receives feedback regarding municipal operations across the 40th Senatorial District. While local governments operate with autonomy to ensure decisions reflect the voice of their residents, Brown noted that state law should set stronger guiderails that promote transparency, accountability and public trust.

"Local decision-making is critical, and I want to preserve the autonomy of municipal leadership," Brown said. "However, when silence in state law creates opportunities for actions that erode public confidence, it's our responsibility as lawmakers to address it. That is where my constitutional authority lies."

Current state law allows a municipal elected official to resign and immediately apply for or accept a paid position within the same municipality. Brown noted that this practice can undermine voter intent, raise concerns about backroom arrangements, and diminish the accountability expected in public service.

"Recent events and concerns raised to my office have called into question whether the will of the people is truly being upheld," Brown said. "In one instance, an official elected by the voters was sworn in, resigned, and then appointed to a paid municipal position in the same meeting. Residents understandably question whether their vote mattered when a result like that unfolds. Voters must be confident that their choices carry through and are not undone behind the scenes. When that trust falters, faith in the electoral process and in local government is weakened."

Brown's legislation would require a one-year waiting period before a municipal elected official may apply for or accept a compensated position within the same municipality after resigning or retiring. The one-year window would apply regardless of whether the official resigned midterm or completed their service.

"This is a commonsense safeguard," Brown said. "It supports clean transitions, prevents favoritism and reinforces that public service is about honoring the role voters entrusted to you."

Brown appreciates the feedback residents have shared with her office and encourages continued engagement in local government.

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