Energy affordability is a top concern as energy prices continue to rise, especially with the recent surge in demand from data centers. Reportedly, one in five Pennsylvanians have problems paying their utility bills. Coupled with federal budget delays and cuts to assistance programs such as LIHEAP, Pennsylvanians are struggling.

On Wednesday, I attended a press conference with several colleagues on energy affordability in the state and how we’re working toward forward-thinking energy policies.

Right now, the rising cost of energy is placing an unacceptable strain on families, seniors on fixed incomes, and our small businesses. Energy is not a luxury – it is a basic necessity. Consumers must be protected from runaway costs and unfair practices.

As chairman of the House Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities Committee, it’s imperative that we address technological advancements that can alleviate energy burdens on Pennsylvanians. We will continue to pass bills that prioritize renewable energy resources and pass safeguards for data centers. With proper oversight, we will work to ensure rates don’t rise.

I was proud to once again cut taxes for working families as part of this year’s budget. Right here in Philadelphia County, we have more than 175,000 Working Pennsylvanian Tax Credit recipients. That means up to $800 back in your pockets at tax time!

If you qualify for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit, you automatically qualify for this state tax cut. It’s that simple!

My bill to strengthen Pennsylvania’s oversight on electric load forecasting was included in the state budget package enacted last week!

House Bill 1924 addresses recent reports from PJM Interconnection that electricity demand across the PJM footprint – including Pennsylvania – is projected to grow significantly due to data centers, electrification of vehicles and buildings, and other large load additions. Read more about the passage here.

This legislation is about ensuring transparency, accountability and consumer protection, and I’m proud to see it included in the compromised budget we passed.

Pennsylvania’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving. By enhancing oversight we can protect ratepayers while strengthening reliability.

House Bill 1768, also known as the Keystone Fresh Act, advanced out of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee this week! This bill is about getting Pennsylvania grown and produced food onto the trays of students across the Commonwealth.

Too often, the meals served in our schools are made with ingredients that have traveled hundreds of miles. Under our proposal, students will have more opportunities to enjoy apples, corn, beef, dairy and other products grown and raised right here in Pennsylvania.

Overall, this program would provide locally sourced ingredients for healthier school meals, while also stimulating the agriculture industry and local economy.

The bill now moves to the House Chamber for a full vote.

In observance of Thanksgiving, my office will be closed Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28. We will reopen for our regularly scheduled hours on Monday, Dec. 1.

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

My team and I are ready to help you with a range of services, including filing for your Property Tax/Rent Rebate, help with PennDOT and unemployment services.

Please stop by my Philadelphia office (635 W. Erie Avenue), call us at (215) 223-1890 or email RepBurgos@pahouse.net to learn more about the services we offer and get started!

Pennsylvania State Capitol

106 Irvis Office

P.O. Box 202197
Harrisburg, PA  17120-2197
(717) 772-2004

District Office

635 W. Erie Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19140
(215) 223-1890