Mako Introduces Legislation to Bring Accountability to Department of Corrections

April 10, 2024

HARRISBURG – Rep. Zach Mako (R-Lehigh/Northampton) today announced he is introducing legislation to bring accountability to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) as part of a “Back to Basics” government reform package.

“As a member of the House Appropriations Committee for two legislative sessions, I have listened as representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections have appeared before the committee asking for significant funding increases,” Mako said. “The department received an almost 6% increase in the current fiscal year and is requesting a 7.7% increase for the coming year. This is not sustainable.”

More specifically, the bill would require the DOC to use the Pennsylvania Office of State Inspector General to audit its finances and investigate complaints of critical incidents, identify systemic issues and provide possible improvements.

“We must look for cost-savings within the Department of Corrections,” Mako said. “While the state has a responsibility to protect public safety and treat inmates humanely, it cannot come at a runaway cost to the taxpayers. I’m hopeful by involving the Office of the State Inspector General, we can control costs.”

The 183rd District includes Lowhill and North Whitehall townships and Slatington Borough in Lehigh County. It also consists of Allen, East Allen, Lehigh and Moore (part) townships, and Bath, North Catasauqua, Northampton and Walnutport boroughs in Northampton County.

Representative Zachary Mako
183rd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com
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