As Sunshine Week comes to a close, the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) applauds Senators Ryan Aumont (Lancaster) and Kristin Phillips-Hill (York) for proposing legislation to require newspapers to disclose the cost incurred by local governments due to mandatory legal advertising.
“The way we get news has changed, but legal advertising laws haven’t,” said PSATS Executive Director Dave Sanko. “This outdated system forces townships to spend precious taxpayer dollars on ads many residents never see.”
Sunshine Week highlights the importance of open government. PSATS supports this bill because it promotes transparency by:
- Exposing Costs: Public notices will reveal the true cost of legal advertising for townships and other local governments.
- Empowering Residents: Residents will gain a clearer picture of how their tax dollars are being spent.
- Modernizing Public Notices
Sanko emphasizes the need to modernize public notices:
“Current laws limit public access by requiring notices in declining print publications. This legislation opens the door to more effective communication channels, like township websites and community papers, ensuring residents see these important announcements.”
PSATS, representing Pennsylvania’s 1,454 townships, advocates for stronger local government and wider public involvement. This initiative aligns with their mission of promoting transparency and efficient use of taxpayer dollars.