Laurel Highlands Today

Rep. Ryan Warner of Fayette expressed strong disapproval regarding the conduct on the opening day of the 2025-26 Legislative Session. He criticized the manner in which proceedings were handled, emphasizing that members were not given the chance to voice motions or engage in debates about House rules.

“While we had debate on who our next speaker would be and on these House rules, elected members of this House were silenced and not recognized to make motions and to debate the rules of this House,” Warner stated. “To me, that is borderline tyranny. It goes against everything that this Commonwealth and this country stand for. It is an insult to our republic, and it is an insult to the rules of democracy.”

The session began on January 7 with the swearing-in ceremony for 202 out of 203 members, as one member was hospitalized. Despite Democrats holding a slight majority, both parties had an equal number of present members due to the absence.

“Without a majority physically present in the House, votes were basically forced through without members having the opportunity to speak, debate or even clarify their votes,” Warner said. “The people we represent deserve better.”

Representative Ryan Warner serves Pennsylvania's 52nd Legislative District. For further information, contact Patricia Hippler at 717-772-9846 or phippler@pahousegop.com.