REPRESENTATIVESDear Representatives,
There are moments when the public looks to its elected officials not simply for governance—but for clarity, courage, and leadership. We are in one of those moments. In light of renewed national scrutiny surrounding the Epstein files, and here in Pennsylvania, the lasting shadow of the “Kids for Cash” scandal—alongside ongoing public concern over what many have come to call “Custody for Cash”—confidence in our judicial system has been shaken. The court system is meant to be our society’s safeguard—protecting the public, upholding rights, and ensuring fairness when it matters most. But even a safeguard must have accountability. When proceedings happen entirely out of view, it leaves a question that cannot be ignored: Who is watching the system meant to protect us? House Bill 1397, introduced by Rep. Jamie Flick (R), addresses the use of cameras in courtrooms and represents a measured, practical step toward transparency and accountability. It offers a way forward—one that allows the public to see that the system works as it should, and when it does not, that it can be held to account. This legislation does not call for a public “free-for-all” or spectacle. It offers something far more responsible—a controlled, accountable record. A “black box” approach, where proceedings can be reviewed if disputes arise, creates clarity, protects all parties, and reinforces trust in outcomes. We urge you to co-sponsor and support House Bill 1397—without delay and without hesitation. Let this be the moment the House chooses openness over silence. Show Pennsylvanians—especially those who have felt wronged by a potentially unjust, closed system—that you are committed to fairness. With this step, the truth will have nowhere to hide: if concerns are unfounded, transparency will reveal it; if there is injustice, it will come to light. Everyone benefits when the process is open, and trust is restored. You may follow this effort at theindependentgazette.org, where this issue and others impacting transparency and accountability will be tracked. This is an opportunity to lead—to stand visibly for fairness, for accountability, and for the restoration of public trust. We ask you to join in that effort. Respectfully, |
SENATEDear State Senator,
We urge you to introduce and advance a Senate companion bill—without delay and without hesitation- for House Bill 1397, introduced by Rep. Jamie Flick (R), which addresses the use of cameras in courtrooms and represents a measured, practical step toward transparency and accountability. It offers a way forward—one that allows the public to see that the system works as it should, and when it does not, that it can be held to account. This is a moment that calls for action. In light of renewed national scrutiny surrounding the Epstein files, and here in Pennsylvania, the lasting impact of the “Kids for Cash” scandal—alongside continued public concern regarding what many refer to as “Custody for Cash”—confidence in our judicial system has been shaken. Trust cannot be restored behind closed doors. Introducing and advancing a Senate companion bill that mirrors the intent of House Bill 1397. This is more than a procedural step—it’s a clear statement to your constituents that fairness should be visible, not assumed, and that restoring trust matters. This legislation does not call for a public “free-for-all” or spectacle. It offers something far more responsible—a controlled, accountable record. A “black box” approach, where proceedings can be reviewed if disputes arise, creates clarity, protects all parties, and reinforces trust in outcomes. With this step, the truth will have nowhere to hide: if concerns are unfounded, transparency will reveal it; if there is injustice, it will come to light. Everyone wins when the process is open, and trust is restored. We will maintain and publish a public record of where each representative—and their challengers—stand on this issue. This is not done in opposition, but in service to clarity. Constituents deserve to know where their leaders stand when it comes to the integrity of the courts. You may follow this effort at theindependentgazette.org, where this issue and others impacting transparency and accountability will be tracked. Respectfully, |
SUPPORT HB 1397Transparency. Accountability. Protection for Families.HB 1397 is a bipartisan effort to increase transparency and accountability in Pennsylvania’s courts— helping protect families, expose harmful patterns, and restore public trust where it matters most.
Current Sponsors & Co-Sponsors 
Click to hear Sanity Check's 2014 Interview with Bruce Levine
Protecting children matters. Strong courts matter. Accountability matters too. What happens when the system falls short? Bruce Levine | February 1, 2014 — Sanity Check Archives Five years fighting for his children, Bruce Levine joined The Independent Gazette and others, dubbing “Custody for Cash.” Concerns were raised in 2014. For many, this is still happening. Go to theindependentgazette.org to see how you can help! Why HB 1397 Matters Court decisions shape lives—especially for children and families. When transparency is limited, accountability weakens and trust breaks down. HB 1397 helps bring visibility to a system that affects thousands of Pennsylvanians every year. This bill supports oversight, discourages harmful practices, and ensures that decisions are made with greater public awareness. Transparency is not optional—it is protection. Supporting HB 1397 means standing for fairness, accountability, and the right of families to understand and trust the system that impacts their lives. DEMAND TRANSPARENCY PROTECT CHILDREN SUPPORT REFORM STAND FOR ACCOUNTABILITY Help Keep This Work Going Your support helps us continue raising awareness, sharing critical information, and pushing for meaningful reform. Every contribution makes a difference. |
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