FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 10, 2006
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Senate Unanimously Passes Pileggi Bill To Increase Compensation of Constables 

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

On February 6th , the State Senate unanimously passed a bill, introduced by State Senator Dominic Pileggi (R-Chester, Delaware), to address the compensation of constables for the first time in more than a decade. 

As of 2004, there were 3375 constables and deputy constables registered with the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency. For many Pennsylvanians, constables are the first line of contact with the judicial system.  They are elected officers of the court, and perform many dangerous and vital functions, such as service of warrants, transportation of inmates, and court security. 

Constables only receive pay for work they do, in accordance with a statutory fee schedule.  The last time the General Assembly reviewed any portion of the constable fee schedule was in 1994, adopting a fee schedule first discussed in 1987.  In that time period, the Consumer Price Index has risen over 32%. 

"Although elected, constables receive no government provided salary, health insurance, or pension.  They must provide everything for their office at their own expense, including vehicles, office rent, and all necessary equipment," said Pileggi.  "I believe it is time that constables are better compensated for their vital services.  Otherwise, the onus would fall on counties and court officials to provide these functions at direct expense to taxpayers. 

CONTACT:

Lee Derr
(717) 787-4712

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