Senate Votes to Keep PSU Fine In-state

With a unanimous vote, the state Senate has advanced legislation that would require Penn State’s $60-million dollar fine to be spent here in Pennsylvania.  Currently, up to 75% could be distributed to fund sexual abuse programs in other states

Senator Jake Corman (R-Centre) addressed the chamber before today’s vote:SB187

The first $12-million dollar installment is sitting in an escrow account, and has not been dispersed pending a lawsuit that Corman has filed. 

Governor Tom Corbett has filed his own lawsuit seeking to overturn all of the NCAA sanctions, but he tells us Penn State should still honor the fine by funding sexual abuse prevention programs & victims services within the commonwealth’s borders. 

Corman’s bill (SB 187) would also apply to future governing association fine levied on PA colleges & universities.  The House must take up Corman’s bill before it can be sent to the governor’s desk. 

Meanwhile, as the Senate was voting today, Judge John Cleland issued an order denying Jerry Sandusky’s post-sentencing motions.  The ex-assistant football coach is currently serving 30 – 60-years in prison for the sexual abuse of ten boys.