Improving Schools is Number One Issue for Pennsylvania Lawmaker

Pennsylvania state Senator Joseph Conti learned as a businessman and member of the Bucks County Planning Council that public policy should serve constituents.

On the planning council, Conti (Flemming Fellow `95)was a driving force in helping Bucks County redefine its economic and transportation policy in the early 90s. As a businessman, he learned about the need for a proper growth strategy. He is now working to help local governments plan land use and introduced a bill on watershed cooperation among adjoining municipalities.

Currently a member of the education committee, Conti actively addresses the number one issue in the Pennsylvania legislature: improving education. Conti has consistently stood against the Academic Recovery Act, which offers vouchers to students who attend poorly performing schools.

"Revitalizing our communities and providing teacher training are key policies for improving schools," said Conti. The senator has supported the introduction of HB 18, providing teacher and professional development, and SB 907, which aims to reduce school violence and substance abuse.

Since entering the legislature in 1995 as a representative, Conti has tirelessly worked for campaign finance reform. "If you take out the dollars, there will be more participation and it will be more debate-oriented," he said. Conti recently sponsored a bill ensuring public access to a database of campaign fundraising by candidates.