As part of its effort to make state government more transparent, the Senate changed its rules to require the placement of Pennsylvania’s acts and statutes on the Internet, according to Sen. Jake Corman (R-Centre), the Senate's Majority Policy Chairman.

"Starting on July 13th, the public will for the first time be able to search Pennsylvania's laws online," Sen. Corman said.

"Until this change, Pennsylvania was one of very few states that did not have its statutes available on-line for the public," Sen. Corman said. "State residents should have the ability to view and print laws online – it is one way to make government more accountable. Having this information on-line provides quicker, easier access for constituents seeking legislative information, in addition to contributing to a more open state government. I was proud to lead this effort on behalf of Pennsylvania's citizens."

Sen. Corman said the Senate currently has rules in place to put the following information on the Senate’s website:

· Amendments to the Internet before they can be offered on the Senate floor.

· Senate floor votes on the Internet as soon as possible, always within 24 hours.

· Senate’s Legislative Journal—which includes the full text of all floor debates—within 45 days after the date of the session.

7/13/2007