Berks County News

Representative David Maloney (R-Berks) has raised legal concerns over the appointment of Steve Smith as the executive director of the Pennsylvania Game Commission. According to Maloney's research into Pennsylvania law, the appointment, which took place on April 29, was in violation of state law.

Maloney commented on the situation saying, “The accolades and self-aggrandizement that has been appearing in the media regarding this ‘promotion’ may be premature.”

Maloney, who serves as the Republican chair of the House Game and Fisheries Committee, sent a letter outlining his concerns to Governor Josh Shapiro and Office of Administration Secretary Neil Weaver. In his letter, he referenced a press release from the Pennsylvania Game Commission dated April 30, 2024. The press release announced that Stephen Smith had been appointed to his new role by the Board of Game Commissioners during an executive session.

Maloney expressed concern over the lack of transparency surrounding Smith's appointment. He cited Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act which states that while an executive session can be held to discuss matters involving appointments or employment, any official action resulting from such discussions must take place at an open meeting.

He further emphasized that this lack of transparency sends a negative message to sportsmen and sportswomen across Pennsylvania. He urged for a series of open meetings to consider potential candidates for the position of executive director and called for reforms within the Commission.

In closing his letter, Maloney stated: "Recognizing and addressing this wrong is a start in the right direction. This is not the end of the self-reflection necessary to inspire the needed reforms within the Commission. It’s time to make a change, and my door is open to help the Game Commission return to its guiding principles. Our sportsmen and women deserve no less."