(The Center Square) – Long-time Republican budget hawk Rep. Seth Grove will resign from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives effective Saturday, according to a statement released late Wednesday.
The news comes after complaints from other lawmakers that his new role as CEO of the Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association conflicts with his minority chairmanship of the House Labor and Industry Committee.
“Serving as the state representative for the community I grew up in has been the honor of a lifetime,” Grove said in a statement. “This district shaped who I am, and to have had the opportunity to give back through public service is something I will always cherish. I am eternally grateful to the people who placed their trust and faith in me over the years, and I thank them for allowing me to be their voice in Harrisburg. I hope I met the expectations of the homegrown leader they believed I could be and that my work reflected the values and priorities of the community we share.”
The York County representative gained a reputation over his 17 years in office as a self-described “budget maven” and “policy wonk,” having led the House Appropriations Committee and playing a direct role in guiding budget negotiations.
He’s also sponsored bills to reform elections and tighten security measures after universal mail-in voting left many residents uneasy about fraud.
“The time, however, has come to pass the torch to the next generation,” he said. “I am confident the 196th District’s future is bright, and I wish whoever has the privilege of serving its people the very best as they continue the important work of representing this great community.”
Grove had already forgone running for reelection this year, though his resignation was sudden. A special election will be scheduled to replace him.
