In last-minute action Wednesday, state lawmakers passed legislation creating a fourth common pleas court judgeship for Mercer County.

The bill, which was co-sponsored by Sen. Robert D. "Bob" Robbins, Salem Township, R-50th District, now goes to Gov. Mark Schweiker.

The bill would add one judge to the county's compliment. It could mean county voters will elect two judges next year, instead of one to replace Judge Michael Wherry, who decided not to seek retention.

A spokesperson at Robbins' Harrisburg office said he supported the legislation at the request of Mercer County commissioners and county President Judge Frances J. Fornelli.

The bill passed 178-18 in the state House and 36-11 in the Senate.