Mark Pinsley

Pennsylvania's 50 state senators are elected to four-year terms from districts with approximately 250,000 residents apiece. Although state senatorial districts are several times larger than state representative districts, the legislative functions of the two bodies are similar. In order for proposed legislation to become law, both the House and Senate must pass it before the Governor has an opportunity to sign or veto. The State Senate has the power to confirm numerous gubernatorial nominations, including to seat cabinet secretaries, state university board trustees and judicial vacancies. There are no term limits and the base salary is $103,000.