Dilemma in Pennsylvania House as Lawmakers Face Voting Questions
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives is facing a unique situation with two of its members embroiled in contrasting circumstances. Representative Kevin Boyle of Philadelphia is currently at large with an arrest warrant, while Representative Joe Kerwin of Dauphin County is deployed overseas leading U.S. soldiers.
Despite the arrest warrant, Boyle cast 18 votes during a House session on Wednesday via a proxy voting system, which was permitted by a recent change in House rules. Meanwhile, Kerwin has not cast a vote since his deployment on December 13th and is listed as on “leave” in the House.
The situation has raised questions about the status of incapacitated members and their ability to vote, particularly given the slim 102-100 majority held by Democrats in the 203-seat House. Republicans have demanded that Boyle be placed on leave, arguing that his arrest warrant prevents him from effectively carrying out his duties. Democrats, however, have rejected the request, citing the submission of a properly filed vote-by-designation form for Boyle.
This situation has highlighted the need for clear rules regarding the voting rights and responsibilities of incapacitated members. A resolution has been proposed by Democrats to establish an “incapacity inquiry” process, which would allow the House to take steps leading to possible suspension or expulsion of members found unable to perform their duties. Republicans have criticized this move as a stalling tactic to maintain their majority.
As of Monday, there was no update on the situation with Representative Boyle. The House Democrats spokesperson declined to comment further on whether the caucus had been in contact with him.
