SENATOR GORDNER TAKES OATH OF OFFICE

(HARRISBURG) - - Senator John R. Gordner (R-27) today was sworn into office for a full four-year term to represent the citizens of Columbia, Dauphin, Luzerne, Montour, Northumberland and Snyder Counties. Sen. Gordner previously was sworn into office in November of 2003 after winning a special election to fill the unexpired term of former Senator Edward W. Helfrick.

Senate President Pro Tempore Robert C. Jubelirer (R-30) has appointed Sen. Gordner to six Senate Committees for the 2005-2006 session. Sen. Gordner will serve as Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee, as well as serving as a member of the Aging and Youth, Communications and Technology, Community and Economic Development, Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure and Judiciary Committees.

"I'm pleased with my committee assignments, which will allow me to pursue my interests in economic development and job creation," said Sen. Gordner. "Additionally, my new assignment as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee will allow me to have a strong voice in state taxation matters, and I am especially interested in helping to relieve the tax burden faced by Pennsylvania's citizens."

Senator Gordner will continue to operate four district offices, located in Bloomsburg, Millersburg, Mount Carmel and Shamokin Dam.

"I encourage my constituents to contact me through my offices at any time," said Sen. Gordner. "I will continue to be available, open and accessible to the citizens of the 27th Senatorial District.

Senator Gordner previously served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing the 109th Legislative District from 1993 to 2003. He and his wife, Lori, live in Berwick. They have two children, Allison and Cole.

CONTACT: Todd B. Roup (717) 787-8928