Two Republican lawmakers who represent parts of Berks County were appointed to serve on important committees dealing with financial matters in the new congressional session.

Rep. Jim Gerlach, a Chester County Republican, has been named to the House Ways and Means Committee, and Rep. Charles W. Dent, a Lehigh County Republican, was named to the House Appropriations Committee.

In a news release, Gerlach stated that he plans to use the post to be a strong advocate for a pro-jobs agenda focused on making sure Americans can find work and support their families, and that he will fight to rein in wasteful spending.

“I’m committed to working with small-business owners, entrepreneurs and others so that we can implement the proven policies that allow job creators to thrive,” he stated. “In addition, we must provide relief from the job-crushing mandates in the health care law.”