Potential merger could save Pennsylvania millions

The state lawmaker who ordered up a report on a potential merger of two state agencies for sportsmen is studying the findings.

A recent report showed the state would save $5 million dollars a year if it combined the Game Commission and the Fish and Boat Commission.

The annual state budget is more than $28 billion dollars, but Republican Representative Martin Causer of McKean County said the savings could go back into programs.

“We wouldn’t have the redundancy. We could have a more efficient agency that provides more services for sportsmen and anglers.”

Causer said the savings are significant.

“Both agencies claim that they need additional revenue and so why not consider merging the agencies to provide more resources for sportsmen?”

The two independent agencies both voiced concerns a merger would weaken their respective missions.  

The agencies administer hunting and fishing regulations, keep the lists on endangered species, and raise awareness about threatened wildlife or polluted waters.

Recently, the Game Commission has come under fire from Republican lawmakers for trying to give a former director a more than $200,000 dollar severance payment, and considering as a replacement an employee who is under an ethics investigation.