The Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center honored State Rep. Thomas Murt (R) last week for his work on the Marcellus impact fee and human service issues with its legislator of the year award.
Murt, who has served on the Pennsylvania House Human Services and Health Committee, is a strong advocate for those living with disabilities. He advocated for a tax on the shale industry, which in turn would help fund initiatives for those living with intellectual disabilities.
Executive Director for PBPC Sharon Ward said Murt is quiet, yet powerful leader in the general assembly who is a very strong advocate for individuals with disabilities, early childhood education, and veteran’s issues. He came to our attention because of his common sense approach to the shale tax issue.
Murt, in a phone interview, said, “I’m very grateful to the Pennsylvania Policy and Budget Center and my colleagues in Harrisburg for this recognition as we continue to work on these important issues.
“I can’t think of a more important mission for government than supporting those who can’ t do it for themselves,” Murt went on to say, pointing out there is still yet more to
Murt’s interest in supporting those with disabilities does not stop with developing funding and supports, but also takes on the “stigma” community members that use the services of the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) House Bill 2532 seeks to rename the DPW to the Department of Human Services.
“Changing the name of the Department of Public Welfare to the Department of Human Services more accurately reflects the wide range of services the department provides without the stigma attached to public assistance and welfare,” Murt said in a press release for the bill.
The mid-day luncheon on Nov. 30 held in Philadelphia celebrated PBPC’s 5th anniversary and also honor State Rep. Gene Di Girolamo (R-Bucks) for his success as a legislative leader.
The Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center focuses on demystifying the state budget for citizens by providing research and information about the process. They advocate for investments to be made into the communities of the commonwealth.