Cost-of-living varies considerably in Pennsylvania, with southeastern Pennsylvania being particularly more expensive than the rest of the state. However, wages for state government employees do not factor in these local differences. As a result, state agencies struggle with the hiring and retention of employees in regions with a higher cost-of-living, such as southeastern Pennsylvania. To attract the best talent, wages must remain competitive.
 
For that reason, I plan on introducing a resolution to provide us more information on how to best make wages for state government employees competitive. Specifically, my resolution will direct the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study and make recommendations on implementing location-based pay for state government employees.
 
The federal government, California, and New York already implement location-based pay. It is time for Pennsylvania to follow their lead. Please join me in co-sponsoring this resolution to ensure that our state government can attract the best talent.