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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Lawrence Curry |
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Curry backs measure to stabilize Philadelphia's pension system, finances
HARRISBURG, Aug. 6 – State Rep. Lawrence Curry, D-Montgomery/Phila., released the following statement about the measure (H.B. 1828) passed by the House that would help Philadelphia pay the city's pension obligations to past and current employees through a temporary five-year 1 percent increase in the city's sales tax.
"Philadelphia, our state's largest city, is in a financial crisis and the legislature must take quick action to stabilize the city's finances. Philadelphia is home to numerous cultural and educational institutions that are within reach of the entire region. The city is also a hub of year-round tourism activities which contribute to the entire state's economy.
"I have joined with the rest of the Philadelphia delegation in urging the Senate to act swiftly on H.B. 1828. Without this measure Philadelphia would be forced to eliminate almost 1,000 positions in its police department and 200 in its fire department. Two health centers would be forced to close, reducing citizens' access to health care; trash collection would be limited; and entire service departments, including Parks and Recreation, the Free Library, Planning and Commerce would be closed. After all, this will be exclusively Philadelphia money and as a municipality they should be able to pursue their own best interests," Curry said.
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