Sen. Pat Browne, R-16th, issued the following statement May 8 regarding his recent motorcycle accident:

"I sincerely apologize to my family, colleagues and constituents for the choices that I made last Saturday [May 2] and I am extremely grateful that no one else was hurt," Browne said.

"I am deeply passionate about my legislative work and humbled to represent the 16th Senatorial District.

"Thank you to the many individuals who have reached out to me since my motorcycle accident last Saturday. I have received outstanding medical care for my physical injuries from the accident and I am currently recuperating in an area physical therapy facility.

"It is no secret that I have battled issues relating to alcohol in the past. Every day requires me to vigilantly control my disease, and I am dedicated to seeking help to regain a solid grasp of my illness."

State police issued an update May 8 noting "a laboratory report was received which indicated Browne's blood alcohol concentration was above the legal limit."

Charges were filed with District Court 31-1-04.

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, R-25th and Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-34th, said the following regarding Sen. Browne:

"Pat Browne is an important part of our leadership team and we are confident that he will be back to Harrisburg as soon as he has recovered. Until his return, as Senate Rules state, the Senate Appropriations Committee Vice-Chair, Sen. Kim Ward will oversee the Appropriations Committee.

"We are pleased to learn that Pat was released from the hospital yesterday and is recovering following his motorcycle accident last Saturday [May 2]. We offer our prayers for Pat as he works to recuperate."