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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Real Relief on the Way for Pennsylvania Ratepayers
Pennsylvania families are feeling the strain of rising costs everywhere they turn. Whether it is groceries, housing, gas or electricity, it seems like everything costs more than it did just a few years ago. I was proud to vote for House Bill 2224, legislation that would provide immediate relief by lowering electric bills for consumers across the Commonwealth.
In a rare moment of complete agreement, the Pennsylvania House voted 202-0 in support of this bill. We came together as Republicans and Democrats because helping Pennsylvanians afford their monthly bills should not be a partisan issue.
House Bill 2224 would eliminate the nearly 6% Gross Receipts Tax that is currently built into electric bills. This tax is collected by utilities and passed directly on to ratepayers. By removing it, we can reduce electricity costs and return an estimated $1.7 billion to Pennsylvania consumers. This could become the largest tax cut in state history.
For families trying to balance household budgets, seniors living on fixed incomes, and businesses working to manage expenses, this relief cannot come soon enough. People need help now, and this legislation delivers a meaningful tax cut that puts money back where it belongs.
The affordability crisis continues to affect hardworking Pennsylvanians every day. One of the best things government can do is allow people to keep more of the money they earn. That is exactly what this bill would accomplish.
The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration. House Bill 2224 is an important step toward making our Commonwealth more affordable for everyone. Please watch my remarks from the House Chamber.
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Data Centers Must Benefit Pennsylvanians, Not Just Big Corporations
I voted to support three important bills addressing the rapid growth of data centers across Pennsylvania because economic development should work for our communities, not just billion-dollar corporations.
I co-sponsored and voted for House Bill 2496, which would establish a 180-day pause on data center applications, so municipalities have time to research these projects, update local ordinances and put safeguards in place. Communities deserve a voice in decisions that could impact infrastructure, energy use, water resources and quality of life for decades to come.
Please watch my comments on this important legislation.
I also voted in favor of House Bill 2650, which would require transparency, community engagement, environmental safeguards and protections against rising utility costs for developers seeking tax incentives. While I supported the bill, I was disappointed House Democrats blocked amendments that would have protected farmland, reduced Pennsylvania's gas tax burden and ensured the largest corporate hyperscale data centers were held to the same standards.
Check out my comments from the House Chamber.
Finally, I voted for House Bill 2198 to repeal a special tax exemption for data centers. Pennsylvania taxpayers have already forgone more than $80 million in revenue, and that number could reach hundreds of millions more in the years ahead. Meanwhile, these facilities place growing demands on our electric grid and water supplies. Companies worth billions of dollars should not need taxpayers to subsidize their operations.
I made comments about this bill during a House Finance Committee meeting. Please watch the video.
Pennsylvania can welcome investment and create jobs, but we must also protect taxpayers, preserve our communities and ensure growth happens responsibly.
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We Can Deliver Property Tax Relief Without Shortchanging Our Schools
As the cost of living continues to rise, many Pennsylvania seniors are struggling to keep up. For those living on fixed incomes, increasing property taxes can make it harder to remain in the homes and communities they love.
I voted in support of House Bill 1678, legislation that would provide additional property tax relief to homeowners while ensuring all 500 school districts across Pennsylvania continue to receive funding.
I often hear from constituents who are concerned about affordability. They are looking for practical solutions that help them keep more of their hard-earned money. Enhanced property tax rebates can provide meaningful relief, especially for seniors who are facing rising costs for everyday necessities while on fixed incomes.
What I appreciate most about this legislation is it recognizes we do not have to choose between supporting taxpayers and supporting our schools. We can do both. House Bill 1678 takes a balanced approach by helping homeowners while maintaining funding for school districts across the Commonwealth.
The legislation passed the House with bipartisan support. It is an important first step toward making Pennsylvania more affordable for seniors and homeowners while continuing to invest in the education of our children.
The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
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Taking Action to Protect Pennsylvania Families from Forever Chemicals
Protecting the health and safety of Pennsylvania families should always be a priority. I was pleased to vote for and co-sponsor House Bill 2145, bipartisan legislation that takes an important step toward reducing exposure to harmful chemicals found in many everyday products.
House Bill 2145 would ban the intentional use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS or "forever chemicals," in products such as cosmetics, dental floss, menstrual products, and certain infant and children's items.
These chemicals have raised growing concerns among health experts because they can remain in the human body and the environment for years. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a variety of serious health issues, making it increasingly important that we take reasonable steps to limit unnecessary contact with these substances.
This legislation is a commonsense approach that protects consumers while providing manufacturers with time to transition to safer alternatives. It balances public health concerns with practical implementation, ensuring that businesses can adapt while families benefit from stronger protections.
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
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Supporting Our Students
I hear it all the time from parents, students and grandparents across our communities. The cost of higher education has become overwhelming. For too many Pennsylvania families, earning a college degree feels increasingly out of reach.
They are right to be concerned. Pennsylvania remains one of the most expensive states in the nation for college tuition, and that reality is forcing many young people to reconsider their future plans.
I support the Pennsylvania Promise initiative and voted for House Bill 2084. This legislation would provide scholarship assistance to eligible Pennsylvania students attending community colleges, state universities, and certain state-related institutions, helping make higher education more affordable and accessible.
We often talk about the importance of keeping talented young people in Pennsylvania. We say they are our future. If we truly believe that, then we must be willing to invest in them and create opportunities that make it easier for them to build their lives and careers here.
Please watch my remarks on the Pennsylvania Promise.
House Bill 2084 passed the House with bipartisan support. It now moves to the Senate for consideration.
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Standing Up for Glenfield and Neville Island Residents
I recently sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requesting a public hearing on a proposal that would create a commercial barge fleeting area along the Ohio River near Neville Island.
Over the past several weeks, I have heard from residents in Glenfield, Neville Island and surrounding communities who are concerned about the potential impact this project could have on their neighborhoods and quality of life. Many have shared concerns about increased noise, light and air pollution, impacts on recreational boating and fishing, possible effects on property values, shoreline erosion, wildlife habitat and public safety.
Whenever a project has the potential to significantly affect our communities, residents deserve the opportunity to be heard. I have formally asked the Corps of Engineers to hold a public hearing before making a final decision on the permit application.
A public hearing would allow community members to ask questions, share their concerns and ensure their voices are part of the decision-making process. Transparency and public participation are critical, especially when a proposal could have long-term impacts on the people who live, work and enjoy recreation along the Ohio River.
I will continue to advocate for our communities and work to ensure residents have a seat at the table throughout this process.
Click the link here to read my letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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Connecting Residents with the Care They Need
It was great to see such a strong turnout at our recent free dental clinic, which I was proud to coordinate in partnership with UPMC for You and Miracle Dental Associates.
Throughout the day, residents received cleanings, exams, x-rays, fluoride treatments and assistance with follow-up care when needed. They received access to healthcare services that can make a real difference in their quality of life.
Bringing services directly to residents helps remove barriers to care and ensures more people can receive the treatment they need before small problems become larger and more costly ones. Preventative care is one of the smartest investments we can make.
Helping residents connect with care and improving overall health will always be a priority.
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More District Events Coming Your Way! Make Plans to Attend!
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Supporting Lives, Building Community
I was honored to participate in the open house at Verland, a person-centered community that provides housing and support for more than 230 individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.
During the visit, I toured the campus and saw firsthand the wide range of programs available to residents, including the swimming pool, the barn with goats and donkeys, and the horses that provide equestrian therapy. We also visited Buddy Brew, the new coffee shop where residents are learning valuable job and life skills.
One of the most meaningful parts of the day was hearing directly from residents who recently moved to Verland and shared how grateful they are for the support they have found there.
Verland is a tremendous asset to our region.
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Encouraging the Next Generation of Leaders
I had the opportunity to meet with outstanding students participating in The American Legion Keystone Boys State program during their visit to the Capitol.
It was great to meet students from the Quaker Valley School District and Moon Area School District, including Harper Sipes, Charles Mulholland, Dennis Mulholland and Sam Hall. I appreciated their thoughtful questions and engagement.
The American Legion Keystone Boys State is a week-long leadership development program that gives young men from across Pennsylvania hands-on experience in government, civic engagement and public service. It is an excellent opportunity for students to learn how the legislative process works and what it means to serve in elected office.
During our discussion, we talked about leadership, collaboration and problem solving in public service. I also emphasized the importance of communication, integrity, critical thinking and working together to find common ground that delivers results for our communities.
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Fish for Free on Independence Day!
Next Saturday, July 4, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will host a Fish for Free day to allow anyone (resident or non-resident) to legally fish on all Pennsylvania waterways. No license is required, but all other fishing regulations apply. This is a great way to expose the next generation of anglers to the outdoors! More information about fishing in Pennsylvania is available here.
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