Luzerne Times

Rep. Dane Watro, representing Luzerne and Schuylkill counties, has been appointed to several committees in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 2025-26 legislative session. Watro will serve on the Education, Insurance, Local Government, Professional Licensure, and Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness committees.

Watro expressed his commitment to continuing his work with the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee. "I am especially pleased to be able to continue my work with the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee for another term," said Watro, an Army veteran. "Helping my fellow veterans is a priority of mine, and I look forward to furthering those efforts with my colleagues on this important committee, which also develops legislation to keep all Commonwealth residents safe."

The House Education Committee addresses issues related to public and private schools from pre-K through grade 12 basic education as well as post-secondary education. The Insurance Committee oversees the Insurance Department and examines legislation impacting insurance matters carefully.

The Local Government Committee reviews policies that amend municipal codes affecting local government operations, including purchases, real estate assessments, and pensions for municipal police officers. The Professional Licensure Committee deals with legislation concerning professional licensing boards administered by the Department of State.

Standing committees play a crucial role in the legislative process by reviewing bills assigned to them. They may hold hearings on proposed legislation, consider amendments, and report bills to the full House for voting.

Watro and other members took their oaths of office on January 7th to commence the new session officially.