This week, I returned to Harrisburg for our regular voting session, officially ending our short summer recess. We will convene again next week and once more in late October.

I’m proud to share that several of my bills and resolutions were approved in committee—the first step toward being brought to a vote by the full chamber:

• H.R. 298 would recognize September as “Infant Mortality Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania, a fitting tribute to the six out of every 1,000 babies who died before their first birthday in our state in 2023 (the most recent year for which this statistic was calculated).
• H.R. 319 would recognize October as “Pedestrian Safety Month” in Pennsylvania, aligning with the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s existing National Pedestrian Safety Month. My hope is that this increased awareness will help make every pedestrian safer statewide.
• H.B. 1701, by Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler of Philadelphia County, would charge the Department of Education with creating a school facilities inventory to ensure that all facilities are safe and adequate. I added an amendment to the bill, A01768, to ensure that athletic facilities and HVAC systems are included in assessments, and that the third-parties hired to do assessments provide an executive summary of their findings, among other things. 

Thank you, as always, for your interest in the work we’re doing for you in Harrisburg! Remember, my office is always here to help. Stop by at 1500 Garrett Rd., Upper Darby, or give us a call at (610) 259-7016 anytime.

On Monday, Americans for Contraception celebrated World Contraception Day at the Capitol by hosting a press conference featuring a 25-foot inflatable IUD. The event highlighted the importance of access to contraception for all and expressed support for H.B. 1140, a bill the House passed earlier this year that would require insurance coverage for all types of contraceptive medicines, devices, and services. Birth control is not only used to prevent pregnancy but also to treat and manage many health conditions. I support every person’s right to access it.

Passage of the Dads Matter Act, a PA MOMNIBUS Update

Research shows that when dads are engaged in the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey, both babies and moms fare better. The PA Dad’s Matter Act passed the House on Monday by a vote of 198–5 and would direct the Department of Health to carry out a public awareness campaign encouraging dads to become more involved during these critical family moments. I am proud to see yet another MOMNIBUS bill moving forward!

Emerge Pennsylvania is an organization that runs a six-month program to train Democratic women to run for public office, with a special focus on women from typically underrepresented backgrounds. This week, the a few of the most recent graduates joined me in Harrisburg to experience a day in the life of a Pennsylvania legislator, followed by a graduation ceremony later that evening. Congratulations to Margaret Whiting of Montgomery County (left), Dominique Holland of Delaware County (center right), and Odessa Tate of Philadelphia County (right). I look forward to seeing where the future takes you.

Words can’t express how proud I am of each young woman who participated in last weekend’s Inspi-HER’d Field Day for Girls. You showed up, dug deep, and learned about yourselves and the importance of taking care of you. The skills you gained will set you up for success as you continue to grow and learn.

Below are several photos from the day – but honestly, there were too many to choose from! You can access the whole gallery here.

On Wednesday, I attended the Delaware County Annual Memorial Service for fallen firefighters and EMS personnel, which honors their memory and recognizes their service. Each first responder’s name was called, and a rose and candle were carried down the aisle to be placed by a helmet representing the life lost. The event commemorates heroes from all the townships and municipalities of Delaware County. I am honored to have been invited and grateful for the sacrifices these brave men and women made.

Wednesday, October 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Senior Wellness Fair and Casino Day

326 Watkins Ave., Upper Darby

Thursday, October 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Senior Estate Planning Clinic co-hosted with Sen. Tim Kearney

20th Century Club

Saturday, October 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Community Baby Shower co-hosted with Sen. Tim Kearney

Beverly Hills Middle School

Tuesday, October 7 and Thursday, October 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Upper Darby Fire Department Expo & Open House (Fire Prevention Week)

• October 7: Observatory Hill Recreation Center, 101 Tobacco Rd., Upper Darby
• October 9: Primrose Secane Westbrook Park Fire Company, Station 74, 1005 Secane Ave., Secane

Wednesday, October 15 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Delaware County Intermediate Unit Fall Career Fair

DCIU Aston, 100 Crozerville Rd., Aston, PA 19014

Want to stay up to date on all my happenings in Harrisburg, the 164th Legislative District and beyond? Or do you want to get the latest info on our events and office hours? Make sure to follow me on all my social pages using the icons below! 

If you need assistance with any state-related issue, you can reach out to my office.
 

Thank you for letting our team proudly serve you, your families, and the stakeholders in the 164th in East Lansdowne, Lansdowne, Milbourne, and Upper Darby. 

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Sincerely,

Pennsylvania State Capitol

25-A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-4907

District Office

1500 Garrett Rd.
Upper Darby, PA 19082
(610) 259-7016