Education
Smith attended and graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Penn State University.
Smith attended and graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Penn State University.
After working for several years in the construction industry, he later took a job with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. In 1986 Smith was elected to succeed his father, Eugene "Snuffy" Smith, who had represented the 66th district since 1963.
He served as Minority Leader from 2007 through 2010, and spoke for his party on the floor and leads debate on major issues. Prior to the Democratic takeover in the 2006 election, Smith served as Majority Leader where he was responsible for planning, discussion, debate and final passage of legislation. He was also majority whip until 2003.
Following the 2010 election, which saw Republicans regain their House majority, Smith was elected Speaker when the House reconvened.
Sam is also well known for his leadership on conservation issues. He played a key role in securing major funding to clean up streams, improve local water and sewer services, and reclaim abandoned mines through the “Growing Greener” initiative that he authored. He currently serves as a member of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and the Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board.
Sam is a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Punxsutawney.
As a legislator, Sam has focused on advancing issues important to his constituents, including job creation and retention. He is active in several community improvement organizations, including the Jefferson County Development Council and Route 119 Improvement Committee. He has been a board member of the Jefferson & Clarion Counties Community Action, Inc. Agency since 1988. Sam’s been a friend and avid supporter of local fire companies and emergency service providers.
