State Rep. Paul Schemel | Pennsylvania 90th Legislative District
State Rep. Paul Schemel | Pennsylvania 90th Legislative District
In response to allegations against Schuylkill County Commissioner George F. Halcovage Jr., the House Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Courts will initiate an investigation. The inquiry is set to begin with a meeting on January 11, as announced by Rep. Paul Schemel (R-Franklin), who chairs the subcommittee.
"The allegations against Mr. Halcovage are serious enough to warrant further investigation," stated Schemel. He emphasized that because Halcovage is an elected official, the subcommittee would conduct a thorough investigation to assess whether impeachment proceedings should be pursued.
The investigation follows House Resolution 99, passed in November by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. This resolution grants authority to the Judiciary Committee and its subcommittee to investigate Commissioner Halcovage, subpoena witnesses and materials, and collect testimony. The committee aims to work in a bipartisan manner while ensuring due process rights for all parties involved.
"It is a solemn responsibility of the subcommittee to review the underlying circumstances before a potential impeachment and prepare a report for the Legislature with recommendations," said Schemel. He acknowledged that impeachment would lead to removing an official elected by Schuylkill County residents.
The subcommittee meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m., Tuesday, January 11, in Room 140 of the Capitol.
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