State Representative Dan McNeill announced his bid for re-election in the May Democratic primary election in the 133rd District.

McNeill, a Hokendauqua resident, made the announcement Feb. 18 at the Fullerton Park and Playground Memorial Building.

"Harrisburg does not elect your representative, you do," he told the crowd.

He is serving his first two-year-elective term, after securing the appointment when state Rep. Joseph Brennan resigned.

McNeill said his priorities are education, creating jobs and equality for all.

He called for a restructuring of the committee makeup in Harrisburg.

"One of the biggest problems in Harrisburg is the speed which a bill is brought out of committee," he said. "As you may know, or not know, a bill must be approved by the appropriate committee before it is released to the house floor for voting. Each committee is stacked, whether it's Democrat or Republican, with a ratio of 15-10. I believe committees should be equally dispersed with a 12-12-1 ratio, allowing for a more impartial outcome."

Mentioning he is in his first year of a two-year term, McNiell noted, "It has not been without challenges. Issues such as education, rising gasoline and heating costs, property tax relief, taking care of senior citizens and middle class job security have been and will continue to be my highest priorities."

The redrawn 133rd District includes Catasauqua, Coplay, Fountain Hill, Hanover Township, most of Whitehall Township, portions of Salisbury Township and Bethlehem's wards in Lehigh County. South Bethlehem and East Allentown wards will no longer be in the district. The changes go into effect Jan. 1, 2015.

He also spoke about the issue of employment.

"Creating just not good jobs, but great-paying jobs, is essential to the success of our commonwealth," he said. "Without a middle class, neither the Commonwealth nor the country can survive."

"I cannot stress enough the importance of adequate paying jobs. When people are working, our community works. Supporting our skilled labor force and local businesses is a must. With more support comes more job opportunities."

McNeill stressed equality for all, both in the workforce or everyday life.

"When people are happy within themselves, they are more successful. With this, I truly believe the crime rate will drop dramatically. It is disconcerting that we spend more on criminals than we do on education," he said.

Supporters and political figures attending the announcement, along with McNeill family members, included Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski, township commissioners Dennis Hower, Gerard Palagonia and Clair Hunsberger, Coplay Mayor Joseph Bundra, union officers and Lehigh County Democratic Party leaders.

"I would like to thank all of you, McNeill said. "I would not be standing in front of you today without your support."