Rep. Mike Sturla's Biography

Mike Sturla, state representative for the 96th Legislative District (Lancaster County) was born and raised in Lancaster County. He graduated from Garden Spot High School in 1974 and from the University of Kansas in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Design. While still in college, Mike started a small painting and renovating business with his brother that later became Sturla Brothers, Inc. Construction and Contracting. Mike would later form Aarchitrave, an architecture and design business with several partners.

Mike began his public service in 1987 when he was elected to Lancaster City Council. He also served as a member of the Lancaster County Planning Commission in 1990 until his election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1991. Mike has diligently served the citizens of the 96th District, which includes Lancaster City and parts of Lancaster Township and Manheim Township. He also volunteers in the community and serves on various boards, including the Shreiner-Concord Cemetery, Lancaster County Workforce Investment Board and the Stevens College Community Advisory Council.

Throughout his legislative career, Mike has served on a variety of House standing committees, including Appropriations, Transportation, Health, Education, Urban Affairs, and Aging. As majority chair of the Professional Licensure Committee in the 2007-08 session, he shepherded through 22 laws. 

In the 2009-10 legislative session, Mike was elected by his Democratic colleagues to the leadership position of House Democratic Policy Committee Chair, which is instrumental in crafting the caucus' policy agenda. He served 12 years in this position until 2021, making him the longest serving Policy Committee Chair in the history of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Mike currently serves as the majority chair of the House Housing & Community Development Committee. He also serves on the Chesapeake Bay Commission.