For Immediate Release
Contact: Mary Donnelly
Phone: 412-341-7475

Press Statement

PITTSBURGH, PA, December 5, 2002 - Anthony P. Leech, senior partner with the law firm, Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & Lampl, today confirmed that Gregory C. Fajt was appointed by Governor Ed Rendell for secretary of revenue for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Fajt was a partner of the downtown firm that specializes in commercial and corporate law.

"While it is indeed a loss for our firm, we commend Governor Rendell on his choice for secretary of the department of revenue," said Leech. "Not only is Greg qualified for the position, but he is a person of extremely high ethical and moral character."

As revenue secretary, Fajt will be a member of the governor's cabinet and the board of finance and revenue. He will supervise more than 2,100 employees statewide and be responsible for an annual budget of $720 million. His responsibilities include the oversight of the Cigarette Tax Board, the Press Office, the Pennsylvania State Lottery, the Office of Legislative Liaison, the Office of e-Commerce and the Office of Taxpayers' Rights Advocate. He will also be responsible for collecting revenue through the personal income tax, sales and use tax, all corporate taxes, inheritance tax and all other state taxes.

A History of Public Service
Fajt, 48, hails from Greensburg, Pa. and is no stranger to public service. "I was taught at a very young age that we live in a community in which everyone needs to participate for it to work," said Fajt. This belief launched him into a career of public service in 1991. For six years, he served as state legislator for the 42nd Legislative District. He was the first Democrat elected to this seat. During his career as a state legislator, Fajt was recognized as a leader in the area of tax policy and was responsible for many bills and legislation that moved his district forward.

"I am honored that Governor Rendell considered me for this position," said Fajt. "It is a privilege to return to public service as part of this extraordinary team. I am confident that my experience as a state legislator, attorney and CPA will assist me in helping Pennsylvania be effective and efficient in meeting its financial goals during these difficult economic times."

Looking Ahead
Fajt was confirmed by two-thirds of the Pennsylvania Senate and is eager to once again become a public servant. "I'm excited and ready to go," said Fajt. He is already looking at ways to address Pennsylvania's financial challenges. "I believe that by developing a system to allow for quicker receipt of tax dollars and expanding our lottery system we can begin to address the Commonwealth's budget deficit."

"I leave Leech Tishman Fuscaldo & Lampl with very mixed emotions," said Fajt, "My tenure there was perhaps the best work experience anyone could hope for, but I have a strong sense of duty and enjoy serving the public. It is my hope that as revenue secretary, I can continue to help an even greater number of Pennsylvanians by running the department in a prudent, efficient, and most important, ethical manner."

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