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Full Commonwealth Court set to hear Wolf, Arneson case

After hearing several hours of testimony and arguments from both sides, a judge decided that the full court of the Commonwealth, consisting of seven judges, wou...

After hearing several hours of testimony and arguments from both sides, a judge decided that the full court of the Commonwealth, consisting of seven judges, would determine whether or not Governor Tom Wolf was justified in firing Erik Arneson.

Arneson was the first and only person to take the stand in a hearing held Wednesday in Harrisburg.

Arneson testified that he was hired by former Republican Governor Tom Corbett in early January to serve as the Executive Director of the Office of Open Records.

He was then fired by Democratic Governor Tom Wolf just two days after he was sworn into office.

Arneson's attorneys argued the move was a violation of the separation of powers and the 'Right To Know' law.

The Attorney General's Office, however, argued Corbett's decision to appoint Arneson was rushed and lacked transparency.

The full Commonwealth Court will now hear the case March 11th.

In the meantime, both sides agreed to some conditions until a final decision is made.

First, Arneson would withdrawal his request for an immediate decision in exchange for a quick hearing in front of the full court.

State senators can still be a part of the lawsuit and finally, Arneson has permission to now look for a job until this is sorted out.
Attorneys for Erik Arneson say they are pleased with the outcome of Wednesday's hearing.

Attorneys for Governor Tom Wolf did not make a comment following the judge's decision.

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