Dear state House and Senate leaders,

When it comes to legal bribery in Pennsylvania, we should be deeply ashamed. Not with a shame that leads to hiding, but with a holy shame that leads to repentance and change.

Scripture warns us plainly: “Rulers who love bribes and chase after gifts do not defend the cause of the orphan” (Isaiah 1:23). A society that tolerates bribery is a society that slowly abandons the vulnerable.

Pennsylvania is one of only three states with no limits on the value of gifts public officials may accept. This is not a technical oversight. It is a moral failure. It sends the message that access can be bought, that influence belongs to the wealthy and that the common good is negotiable.

For years, I have worked alongside MarchOnHarrisburg, urging legislative leaders to confront this culture of corruption. Passing a gift ban is among the simplest and most powerful steps you can take to begin restoring public trust. It will not solve everything, but it is a necessary first act of honesty.

Each day that passes without action is another day corporate lobbyists shape our priorities while ordinary Pennsylvanians are left unheard.

The prophet Amos cries out, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24). This is a moment to let justice roll.

Pass a gift ban. Show the people of Pennsylvania that your allegiance is to them, not to special interests.

Pastor Tim Seitz-Brown

Rapho Township

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