HARRISBURG – Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48) was assigned to seven standing Senate committees for the 2025-26 legislative session: Banking and Insurance as chair; Community, Economic and Recreational Development as vice chair; Appropriations; Aging and Youth; Communications and Technology; Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure; and Institutional Sustainability and Innovation.
“Having worked nearly three decades in the insurance field, I look forward to using my business knowledge as the Banking and Insurance chairman to improve policies impacting these two industries affecting Pennsylvanians every day. Changes to Pennsylvania’s banking and insurance laws would have a major impact on almost everyone, so I take this role very seriously,” Gebhard said.
Committees provide legislative oversight and help shape the language in bills that fall under their areas of responsibility.
The Banking and Insurance Committee reviews legislation ensuring financial institutions and insurers are compliant with fiscally sound practices, as well as promoting fair and healthy market competition.
The Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee supports business growth and development by working closely with the Department of Community and Economic Development on issues pertaining to the state’s various grant and loan programs.
The Appropriations Committee considers legislation for its fiscal impact and plays a crucial role in negotiating and developing the state budget.
The Aging and Youth Committee oversees the Department of Aging and reviews legislation that affects the programs and services dedicated to senior citizens and younger Pennsylvanians.
The Communications and Technology Committee assesses ways to improve access to high-speed internet, protect and secure personal information in state government and create state information technology efficiencies.
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee protects the health and safety of the public by handing bills, rules and regulations on consumer affairs; regulated public utility services; and the 29 professional and occupational licensing boards in the state.
The Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee evaluates legislation concerning the current and future sustainability of institutional facilities such as hospitals, educational facilities and nursing homes. It also oversees impacts to emerging and innovative technologies that could aid in the sustainability of these institutions.
CONTACT: Alex Gamble