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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Homeowner’s Ongoing Struggle After a Landslide – Hopefully, Solution in Sight
Government is meant to use our tax dollars wisely and help citizens solve problems, not create new ones. However, one resident in Sewickley Hills has experienced the opposite.
For the past two years, the aftermath of a landslide destroyed his driveway. Despite repeated repair attempts from PennDOT, things have only gotten worse each time it rains. His home remains difficult to access, and emergency vehicles still cannot safely reach the property.
That’s not just frustrating; it’s unacceptable.
Situations like this are exactly why I introduced House Bill 589. This legislation would create a voluntary landslide insurance program for both homeowners and municipalities in high-risk areas, helping cover damage where traditional insurance often falls short. It is critical step to ensure that there are options in the future.
I will continue pushing for answers and accountability here as Taxpayers deserve better.
I and the homeowner recently spoke with KDKA-TV CBS Pittsburgh about this issue to help bring more urgency to the situation. Please watch the segment and read the full story to understand why this is so important – not just for this homeowner, but for others experiencing the devastating effects of landslides.
We cannot keep allowing situations like this to fall through the cracks.
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Joining the Fight Against Human Trafficking in Pennsylvania
Recently, I joined a bipartisan, bicameral Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus in Pennsylvania’s General Assembly to strengthen laws, support victims and hold traffickers accountable.
Human trafficking is happening in our communities every day, often hidden in plain sight. Pennsylvania’s major highways and transportation networks make our state especially vulnerable. In our region, access points such as the Pittsburgh International Airport and numerous hotels further increase the risk, making awareness and prevention even more critical.
I have taken action on this issue before. I authored Act 45 of 2021, which became law and expanded counseling and treatment requirements for certain offenders. But more must be done.
Pennsylvania continues to rank among the highest states for reported trafficking cases. Through this caucus, we will advance targeted legislation, improve coordination with law enforcement and service providers, and raise public awareness so more people can recognize and report trafficking.
This effort is about protecting vulnerable individuals, supporting survivors and ensuring traffickers are brought to justice. I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move this work forward.
If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. If a child may be involved, contact ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313.
My goal is to ensure Pennsylvania embraces new technology in a way that benefits everyone, while protecting our communities and preparing the workforce for what comes next.
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Shaping Pennsylvania’s AI Future
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to expand across Pennsylvania, I have had a front-row seat to how it’s already transforming our economy and what we need to do to guide it responsibly.
As a member of the House Communications and Technology Committee, I also served on the Advisory Committee on Artificial Intelligence through the Joint State Government Commission. Our work focused on understanding how AI is being used today and how it will shape the Commonwealth’s future.
AI is already making an impact in health care, agriculture, education, manufacturing and government services. It’s improving efficiency, increasing access to information and driving innovation in everything from medicine to everyday technology. But alongside those benefits are real concerns, including data privacy, cybersecurity risks, misinformation, workforce disruption and the strain data centers place on energy resources and local communities.
Pennsylvania has a real opportunity to lead. Through my work on the committee, I have collaborated with experts, industry leaders and state agencies to take a close look at both the promise and the risks of AI. The conclusion is we can support innovation and economic growth, but we must also put strong safeguards in place to protect people.
Our committee is recommending a balanced approach, one that promotes innovation while strengthening transparency, accountability and privacy protections. We are also calling for greater investment in workforce training, a closer review of data center impacts and the possible creation of a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer to help coordinate efforts across state government.
My goal is to ensure Pennsylvania embraces new technology in a way that benefits everyone, while protecting our communities and preparing the workforce for what comes next.
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How AI Can Transform Health Systems
The House Health Committee and the Communications and Technology Committee recently convened a joint hearing to examine the rapidly expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. As a member of the Communications and Technology Committee, I was pleased to take part in this discussion about how emerging technologies can reshape our health care system.
During the hearing, I asked testifiers how AI can help reduce health care costs while eliminating waste, fraud and abuse? If we are going to embrace new technologies, they must provide tangible benefits, not just innovation for its own sake, but real savings and stronger accountability for both patients and taxpayers.
AI has the potential to become a powerful tool in improving efficiency and delivering better outcomes across the health care system.
In support of this effort, I have introduced House Bill 979. This legislation would establish a framework for integrating artificial intelligence into state government operations, including health care, while prioritizing transparency and accountability. The goal is simple: Use smart technology in a smart, responsible way that benefits the public.
Please take a moment to watch the video to learn more about this initiative and how AI could play a key role in shaping the future of health care.
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Strengthening Workforce Development
Preparing young people for family-sustaining careers is a responsibility we must take seriously. As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, it is critical that we create clear, accessible pathways for students to enter meaningful and well-paying professions.
I participated in a House Republican Policy Committee hearing focused on strengthening workforce development in Pennsylvania’s skilled trades. The discussion brought together industry leaders who are actively working to equip students with hands-on skills that translate directly into career opportunities.
I had the opportunity to ask Anna Barensfeld of Ellwood Specialty Steel, Julia Michael Smith of the Lawrence Mercer Manufacturers Coalition, and J. D. Longo of the America First Policy Institute about strategies to engage students earlier in hands-on learning. Specifically, we discussed whether apprenticeships and career and technical education programs could begin at a younger age to better position students for future success.
By introducing students to skilled trades sooner and building collaborative support systems, we can help them develop valuable skills and pursue stable, rewarding careers.
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Supporting Library Improvements
I’m pleased to share the Sewickley Public Library has been awarded a $750,000 grant through the Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities program. This funding will support the redesign and renovation of the library’s first-floor spaces, improving accessibility, functionality and the overall experience for visitors.
Libraries are one of the most valued resources in our communities. They provide educational opportunities, access to technology, and programming for residents of all ages. That’s why I’m especially glad to see this kind of investment in a space that so many people rely on every day.
This grant program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Office of Commonwealth Libraries, is designed to strengthen library infrastructure, supporting everything from accessibility upgrades to modernized public spaces.
Libraries are cornerstones of lifelong learning. This funding will help create a more welcoming, modern environment for families, students and individuals throughout the Sewickley area.
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Western Pennsylvania’s Revolutionary Legacy
As we move closer to America’s 250 birthday celebration, we continue to celebrate how much of our nation’s story is rooted in western Pennsylvania.
Long before Pittsburgh earned its reputation as the Steel City or Iron City, it was known by another name: Whiskey City.
During George Washington’s presidency, western Pennsylvania was at the center of the Whiskey Rebellion, one of the first major challenges to the new federal government. Farmers turned their grain into whiskey, a practical solution that made their goods easier to transport and sell. On the frontier, whiskey wasn’t just a commodity; it often functioned as currency.
I interviewed Brady Crytzer, historian, author and professor at Robert Morris University, to talk about this moment in American history. Our conversation took place outside the Walker-Ewing Log House, a site that brings the story of the rebellion and its people to life.
Why does this house matter to the story of the Whiskey Rebellion? How did local militias become involved? And why was whiskey such a vital product in the region at the time?
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Congratulations on Big 33 Football Classic Selection
Congratulations to Myles Turner on being selected to the Big 33 Football Classic Football Team! This is a tremendous honor and a testament to his hard work and talent.
The Big 33 Football Classic, often referred to as the "Super Bowl of high school football," brings together some of the top student athletes for a Pennsylvania vs. Maryland matchup. Being chosen for this elite team highlights the commitment it takes to compete at such a high level.
As part of the Big 33 experience, Myles, a cornerback from Moon Area High School, recently visited the state Capitol in Harrisburg. It is inspiring to see his dedication and effort recognized in such a meaningful way.
Congratulations also go out to all the student athletes selected for this prestigious event. The Big 33 Football Classic will take place on Sunday, May 24, at Cumberland Valley High School near Harrisburg.
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Protecting Our Greenspace
I attended the 10th annual Brewhaha and had an incredible time supporting a great cause. Hosted at the Mayernik Center at Avonworth Community Park, this event brought together community members, local businesses and conservation advocates for an afternoon of fun and purpose.
All proceeds from Brewhaha directly support the mission of Hollow Oak Land Trust, an organization dedicated to protecting and connecting greenspace throughout Western Pennsylvania.
Hollow Oak currently owns five conservation areas totaling more than 550 acres across Moon, Kennedy, Franklin Park, North Fayette and Hopewell. In addition, the organization holds two conservation easements for the 90-acre Sahli Nature Park in Beaver County.
A special thank you goes to Executive Director, Sean Brady, for his leadership and dedication to conservation efforts in our region.
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