State Rep. Paul Schemel | Pennsylvania 90th Legislative District
State Rep. Paul Schemel | Pennsylvania 90th Legislative District
House Resolution 117, which seeks to initiate impeachment proceedings against Quincy Township Supervisor Kerry Bumbaugh, has advanced past the House Judiciary Committee. The resolution's sponsor, Representative Paul Schemel (R-Franklin), and committee chairman, Representative Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin), confirmed the development on Friday.
The resolution will now move to the full House for consideration. If approved, the Judiciary Committee will investigate whether Bumbaugh should be impeached for alleged misconduct in office. On May 26, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General charged Bumbaugh with 17 criminal counts, including theft, forgery, and tampering with records. He has waived a preliminary hearing.
The resolution grants the Judiciary Committee authority to subpoena witnesses and documents, gather testimony, and prepare legal documents necessary for the Legislature's decision on impeachment.
Representative Schemel expressed concern over Bumbaugh's continued presence in office amid allegations of resource misuse. "My concern is Mr. Bumbaugh remains in a position through which he could continue to misuse township resources. I’d hope that he would resign, but if not, these impeachment proceedings are warranted," Schemel stated. He emphasized that "impeachment is an extraordinary action because it involves the potential removal of a duly elected official."
Echoing Schemel's sentiments, Kauffman remarked on the serious nature of the charges against Bumbaugh: "We have all seen the extensive grand jury presentment that was handed down just weeks ago. I’m gravely concerned that he continues to remain in office while the court case proceeds."