Pennsylvania not only has the oldest inheritance tax, but also has the largest full-time state Legislature in the United States. We have 203 state representatives and 50 state senators, costing the taxpayers millions per year.

New Hampshire does have 400 legislators in its state House, but they are paid a ceremonial fee of $100 per year and their job is not full-time. California, the largest state by population, only has a total of 120 legislators in its House and Senate.

If we reduced Pennsylvania’s Legislature by 50%, we would not only save taxpayers millions of dollars but also have a smaller legislative body that would perhaps be better able to pass a budget on time.

Maybe reducing the size of the Legislature would also be a first step toward decreasing the budget and possibly the inheritance tax. Pennsylvania’s 4.5% inheritance tax is why many individuals buy a “second” home in Florida and claim residence there.

Just a thought!

Madelyn Buckwalter

Warwick Township

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