Capitol Police say 23 arrested in protests over reform bills
HARRISBURG (AP) – Police in the Pennsylvania Capitol say 23 people have been arrested as protesters seek to force action on government reform proposals, including a ban on gifts to lawmakers.
Capitol Police spokesman Troy Thompson says the people arrested on Monday face charges of disorderly conduct.
The demonstrators calling themselves “March on Harrisburg” want movement on a gift ban bill that’s been sitting in the Republican-controlled House State Government Committee since it was introduced in January.
Unlike most other states, Pennsylvania doesn’t limit how much in gifts lawmakers may receive.
Lobbyists routinely dole out free meals, drinks and even tickets to expensive sporting events and recreational opportunities, like ski areas.
Such bills have been introduced before and seen no action.