HARRISBURG, Jan. 6, 2015 – Surrounded by dozens of friends, supporters and family members, state Sen. Art Haywood took the oath of office today, officially taking his seat as a member of the 199th Pennsylvania General Assembly.

“I am grateful for the support of so many people and I am committed to working with them to improve our state,” he said. “The campaign for a better Pennsylvania didn’t stop on election day. It’s just beginning, and will require continued advocacy.”

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Haywood, elected in November to serve the 4th District, which includes parts of Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, opened a transitional district office in December and has already circulated co-sponsorship memoranda in support of his legislative agenda.

A former Cheltenham Township commissioner and longtime public interest attorney, Haywood said his experience informs his collaborative approach as a state senator.

“There are many who believe voter engagement ends with voting,” he said. “But I will be harnessing the power of participation throughout the legislative process. As an elected official, it is my duty to turn voices of concern into solution-oriented action.”

At the swearing-in, Haywood was joined by his wife, Julie Haywood, their three children and his mother, Virginia Haywood, along with more than 30 supporters from the district.

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