Harrisburg, Pa. - Former House Speaker John Perzel and nine others were arraigned today on corruption charges. The list of scandals involving state lawmakers is growing. But has anything been done to prevent similar abuses of power?

At least six arrests in less than three years - that's how many state lawmakers have been charged with breaking the law. That's led to some changes at the Capitol, but it's not nearly enough for some.

Vince Fumo, former state senator, was the first to go down, convicted on federal corruption charges and now serving a 55-month prison sentence.

Frank Lagrotta, a former state representative, pleaded guilty to hiring two relatives as ghost employees and served six months of house arrest.

Still to be decided is the fate of former House Democratic Whip Mike Veon. He, and ten others, are accused of handing out illegal bonuses. Veon is also charged with stealing state funds meant for his nonprofit organization. The trial is scheduled for January.

Former state Representative Sean Ramaley goes on trial next month. He's charged with collecting a state paycheck while doing campaign work.

Now, former Representative Brett Feese and former House Speaker John Perzel join that dubious list - arraigned on charges they illegally used state resources for political gain. Six lawmakers arrested in less than three years - and there could be more - Attorney General Tom Corbett says it's a continuing investigation.

"it's a continuing investigation. Do you expect more arrests to be made. "it's a continuing investigation.">

Scandal after scandal - and critics say there has been little meaningful reform under the dome.

"Power corrupts absolutely, and the whole paradigm is on getting reelected," said Joe Sterns of the Commonwealth Foundation. "Let's put the emphasis on doing good for the people of Pennsylvania. Spending the money wisely, not on getting reelected."

Sterns says term limits and a part-time legislature would help end the abuse of power. But one midstate lawmaker isn't so sure. Representative Ron Marsico says the new open records law is part of the solution.

"We need to have legal review and public scrutiny and scrutiny by the legislature and media," said Marsico. "And I think what we have now is a good start."

Of course, there is another way to bring about change at the Capitol. That would be up to voters on Election Day. It happened after the pay raise scandal, and we'll see if it happens again.

 

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