PRLA Restaurant & Lodging Matters Winter 2020

Winter 2020 • PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters •  23 WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY TO ENGAGE IN THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS? WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE NOT SURE HOW TO ENGAGE WITH THEIR LEGISLATOR? It’s important for everyone who believes in personal liberty and economic freedom to engage in the legislative process. There’s a strong tendency among legislators, executive officials, and bureaucrats to grow their power by increasing the size and scope of government, and citizens and businesses need to be a check and balance on government. Try to build a relationship with your legislators both inside and outside of the Capitol. Talk with them about the issues that are most important to you even when there’s not a critical vote looming. When PRLA does issue a legislative alert, definitely call or meet with your legislator and explain to them how the bill will impact your business, employees, and customers. WHERE DO YOU SEE THE STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA IN 10 YEARS? I really believe the next few years will determine the long-term future of our commonwealth. We currently face significant challenges with slow population growth, an aging demographic, and structural budgetary imbalances. If we can hold the line on spending growth in our budget, avoid increasing an already high tax burden on young families, ensure solid educational opportunities are available to our youth, and deliver on regulatory reform that encourages entrepreneurism, I am confident Pennsylvania will be an economic leader among the states. •