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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Accountability, Efficiency in Government is Needed Now More Than Ever
I want to talk about something that might not grab headlines but has a real impact on people’s everyday lives: how efficiently government works.
Right now, one of the biggest challenges we face is a lack of coordination between agencies. Too often, important information sits in separate systems that do not communicate with each other.
That disconnect creates delays, confusion and unnecessary frustration for residents who are simply trying to keep their records up to date.
Government should work smarter by sharing information better. We need to focus on making data more efficient and ensuring agencies are sharing accurate information across the board.
One of the best opportunities to do that comes when people update their voter registration. When someone takes the time to update their address, that information should not live in just one system. It should be reflected across all relevant states and local agencies, so records stay current everywhere they matter.
That is exactly what my legislation, House Bill 981, aims to accomplish. It builds a more connected system where updates made in one place can be securely and accurately shared where needed. The goal is simple: reduce redundancy, eliminate gaps and make interactions with government easier for everyone.
This concept builds on the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, also known as the Motor Voter Act, which made it easier for people to register to vote. My proposal takes the next step by focusing on what happens after that initial registration – making sure updated information continues to work for residents across multiple agencies.
When government systems are aligned, everyone benefits. Agencies can better verify information, services can be delivered more efficiently, and residents can spend less time navigating bureaucracy and more time focusing on their daily lives.
House Bill 981 is currently before the House Communications and Technology Committee. I look forward to continuing this discussion because improving how government manages and shares data is a practical step toward better serving the people.
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Update on Sewickley Hills Landslide Driveway Repair
I want to share an important update on a situation that has impacted a Sewickley Hills homeowner for far too long.
For the past two years, a landslide has severely damaged Don King’s driveway. Since then, he has faced serious challenges just getting to and from his home, and emergency vehicles have also had difficulty safely accessing the property. Despite previous repair attempts, the situation continued to get worse, especially after heavy rain.
That is why I pushed for answers and accountability, and I am glad to report that we are finally seeing progress.
PennDOT has finalized the design for repairing the driveway and is tentatively scheduled to begin work on Monday, April 21. The project will require a road closure, and more details will be shared in an upcoming press release.
This is a step in the right direction, and I appreciate movement is finally happening toward a real solution for the homeowner.
This is part of a bigger problem. When landslides or similar damage happens, homeowners end up stuck with limited options and long wait times. That is what led me to introduce House Bill 589. This bill would create a voluntary landslide insurance program for homeowners and municipalities in high risk areas. It would help provide coverage where traditional insurance often falls short.
No one should have to wait years for a safe and reliable way to access their home.
I will continue working to make sure this project moves forward. Situations like this should not be allowed to fall through the cracks.
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House Prepares for Budget Negotiations
In a largely procedural vote, the House advanced to the Senate a $53.3 billion state budget proposal for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
The action helps set the stage for real, substantive budget negotiations; however, I could not in good conscience vote for the bill, as it is essentially the same fiscally, irresponsible and unaffordable plan outlined by Gov. Josh Shapiro in February. I will not vote for a budget that spends beyond our means and ignores fiscal reality. The $53.3 billion proposal advanced by the House represents another unsustainable spending plan that Pennsylvania taxpayers simply cannot support.
It represents an increase of $2.72 billion over the current year’s spending. Current state revenues are projected to be $48.95 billion, showing this budget spends too much and it must include policies to grow our economy before any compromise can be reached.
I look forward to the opportunity to vote on a negotiated plan that funds the core functions of government while respecting our taxpayers.
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Deadline Approaching for Mail Ballot Applications
Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt is reminding Pennsylvania voters that those wishing to vote by mail in the May 19 primary election must submit their application by 5 p.m., on May 12.
Completed mail ballots must be received by county elections offices by 8 p.m. on Election Day, May 19, to be counted.
Voters are reminded to carefully follow all instructions when completing their ballot, including sealing it properly in the secrecy and return envelopes, and signing and dating the outer envelope. Some counties also offer drop-boxes or in-person return options.
Voters who requested a mail ballot but prefer to vote in person may do so on Election Day by bringing their mail ballot materials to surrender. If a ballot was not received or cannot be surrendered, voters may cast a provisional ballot at their polling place.
Pennsylvania’s primary is closed, meaning only registered Democrats and Republicans may vote for their party’s nominees. However, all voters may participate in any constitutional amendments, ballot questions or special elections that appear on their local ballot.
Additional information, including polling place locations and county election office contacts, is available at www.vote.pa.gov.
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Hidden History at Walker-Ewing Log House
As America gets closer to its 250th anniversary, efforts such as America250PA are a great reminder to slow down and look at the places that helped shape our country. As part of my ongoing series exploring our area’s past, I recently made a visit to the Walker-Ewing Log House, located on the grounds of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden along Noblestown Road in Collier Township.
When you first arrive, the setting feels quiet and tucked away. It sits near Settlers Cabin Park and Pinkerton Run, not far from Oakdale. It is the kind of place you might pass without realizing just how much history it holds.
This land has a story that goes all the way back to 1795, when this area was still part of the early American frontier.
While I was there, I had the chance to talk with Brady Crytzer, a historian, author and professor at Robert Morris University. Our conversation brought the story of the Walker Ewing Log House to life and opened the door to some interesting questions.
What made this place so important to the region and even to the early story of the United States? Who were the families who decided to build their lives here, and what drew them to this exact spot despite the risks they faced? And what changes did this land go through over the years?
There is also something about the property that many people would not expect when they first visit, which makes the story even more intriguing.
Watch my interview below and hear the full story behind the Walker Ewing Log House.
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A Visit to Amazon’s Findlay Township Facility
It was a pleasure to tour the new Amazon Same-Day facility in Findlay Township, an impressive operation that showcases innovation, efficiency and local investment. The facility, which employs more than 100 full-time team members, is already playing a vital role in ensuring customers across the region receive their orders quickly and reliably.
Beyond its operational excellence, the site represents a commitment to the surrounding community. This investment strengthens the local economy and creates valuable job opportunities that support families and contribute to long-term regional growth.
During the visit, I appreciated the opportunity to speak with team members and media members about the important role small businesses and job creation play in driving sustainable economic success.
Thank you to everyone who made this visit possible and to the dedicated team whose hard work keeps this operation running smoothly every day.
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Parkway West CTC Welding Graduates Honored
There is something special about seeing hard work pay off, and that was on full display at this year’s welding banquet for the Parkway West CTC Welding and Fabrication program.
The evening was a chance to celebrate the Class of 2026 and everything they accomplished over the past year. Students from Moon Area, West Allegheny and Quaker Valley school districts took the stage to share their experiences, and it was clear just how much they have grown.
Each student spoke not only about the technical skills they developed, but also about the confidence and pride that come with mastering a trade. From long hours in the shop to completing challenging projects, their dedication showed in every story.
Events like this are a great reminder of the value of career and technical education. These students are leaving with real world skills and a strong foundation for whatever comes next, whether that is entering the workforce or continuing their training.
Congratulations to all the graduates.
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West Allegheny Graduates Answer the Call
It was a great honor to recognize Cooper Williams, Kacee Davenport and Camden February at West Allegheny High School for their commitment to serve in the United States Armed Forces. Choosing to serve is one of the highest callings an American can answer, and enlisting right out of high school demonstrates courage and readiness.
During the recognition, each student was presented with a House of Representatives citation in acknowledgment of this significant achievement.
I’m proud of these young men and stand behind them as they begin their military journeys. Their commitment is supported by a strong network of family members, friends, school staff, recruiters and members of the Purple Heart Program, each playing a role in guiding and encouraging them along the way.
As they take this next step, I extend my gratitude and best wishes for success.
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From Underdogs to Champions
A long overdue but much-deserved congratulations to the West Allegheny School District High School Boys Soccer team for clinching the WPIAL 3A Championship title.
In recognition of their outstanding achievement, the team was presented with a House of Representatives citation, honoring their hard work on the field and representation of the school community.
West Allegheny High School has long upheld a tradition of excellence, and this year’s team carried that legacy forward in remarkable fashion. Entering Highmark Stadium on a six-game winning streak, the boys delivered a performance that exemplified determination and resilience. Facing a 1-0 deficit against third-seeded Franklin Regional, eighth-seeded West Allegheny responded with incredible intensity, scoring two goals in just 55 seconds to secure a dramatic and unforgettable victory.
This championship marks the program’s second WPIAL title since 2013, further cementing its place among the region’s most competitive teams.
Congratulations to the entire team on this outstanding accomplishment.
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