State Senator Robert 'Tommy' Tomlinson Announces Retirement

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — State Senator Robert "Tommy" Tomlinson, R-Bucks, a Bensalem native, has announced that he will not seek reelection in November and that he will retire afterward.

Tomlinson, who has served Bucks County's 6th District for over 30 years, was a Bensalem school board member and a state representative in Lower Bucks before running for state senate in 1994.

"It is with a full heart and a deep sense of gratitude that I share with you that I have decided not to seek reelection as Senator from the Sixth Senate District of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," Tomlinson said in a statement. "When I look back to that first senate race in 1994, I have to admit that I am still somewhat amazed that we won. Even more humbling is the fact that you all chose to send me back to the Senate six more times."

Tomlinson is known for his work in helping to expand and legalize gambling in the state of Pennsylvania and is credited as helping in the opening of Parx Casino in his hometown of Bensalem. He is also known for supporting legislation for health care insurance through the CHIP program.

"Throughout my years in Harrisburg, I am proud of what we have all been able to achieve. Whether it be the work on the legislation that would allow 100% service-disabled veterans to qualify for a complete exemption of property tax, to the bipartisan work to expand CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) to ensure that all children have access to quality healthcare, we have been able to make a positive difference."

Tomlison made legalized gambling a priority because he understood the money that could be made for the state. He was able to get the proper legislation passed by working with Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell, who agreed that Pennsylvania was missing out on the gaming money. Their decision took 40% of Atlantic City's gambling business away.

A funeral director by trade with a business in Bensalem, Tomlinson sat on the appropriations committee, which oversaw money management for the commonwealth.

State Rep. Frank Farry, of Langhorne, is expected to run for the Republican seat for the 6th District that Tomlinson leaves open. The district oversees Bristol, Bristol Township, Bensalem, Middletown, Langhorne, Penndel, Hulmeville, Lower Southampton, Wrightstown, Ivyland, and Warwick.

A lifelong Bucks County native, Tomlinson graduated from Bensalem High School before going on to graduate from West Chester University with a teaching degree. He went into the funeral business after his father, who had made it his trade, became ill and he stepped in to help.

Tomlinson said he intends to go back into the funeral business full-time.

"It has truly been a pleasure to serve you. While I look forward to the next chapter of my life, I will always be honored to have been your Senator. Thank you for putting your trust in me and allowing me the opportunity of a lifetime to serve you."