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Jenkins’ Research Tip: Finding Bios of Pennsylvania Legislators
There are several ways to find official biographical information about members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Below are different sources that contain biographical information. These sources include photos, when available, as well as assembly identification.
The Pennsylvania Manual:
The Pennsylvania Manual has been publishing the biographies of state legislators since 1923. The biography includes work and personal history for each member. It also highlights various awards received and organizations that the member belongs to. The 120th (2011) and 121st (2013) volumes of the manual are available on the Pennsylvania Department of General Services website, and Jenkins has current and prior volumes available in print in the library.
Current Biographies:
The Pennsylvania General Assembly’s website includes brief biographies with links to current Co-Sponsored Memoranda and Sponsored Legislation for the current members of the Pennsylvania House and Senate. Other highlights include maps of the members’ districts with their district office indicated. Contact information is included for both the district and capitol offices.
Historical Biographies, includes Current Members:
The Historical Biographies found on the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s website has more encompassing information about past and current members of the Pennsylvania House and Senate. Typical biographical information consists of birthdate, education, employment, and session year(s) and position(s) as a legislator.