An array of bills in both houses indicates that many lawmakers finally have come to understand the need to reduce the size of the state Legislature. Unfortunately, the question remains as to whether they will act.
The most recent proposals, by state Sen. Judy Schwank of Berks County, is one of four and the first from a Democrat. It also is the most sweeping. It would reduce the House by more than 40 percent – 82 seats, from 203 to 121 – and the Senate by 20 percent, from 50 seats to 40.