No Shut-Off Pledge from PA's Public Utilities

Rep. Leanne Krueger November 11, 2025

PA Representative Leanne Krueger banner image

Dear Neighbor,

I wanted to share an update about what’s happening with SNAP benefits, as I know many families have been following the latest developments closely. From calls to our office and what I’m hearing from local churches in our district that run food pantries, it’s clear that our senior neighbors who qualify for SNAP, as well as parents of children with disabilities, have both been hit hard by the delay of November benefits, which many people should have received on November 1.

On Friday, following a federal court ruling ordering the Trump administration to release 100% of November SNAP benefits nationwide, Governor Shapiro directed the expedited distribution of benefits across Pennsylvania. As a result, more than $100 million in November SNAP benefits began loading onto EBT cards Friday morning.

However, later that evening, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a temporary stay, pausing the lower court’s order due to an appeal from the Trump administration. This means the federal government is not required to send full payments right now while the appeals process unfolds.

Ahead of this, at the end of October, Governor Shapiro signed a disaster declaration freeing up $5 million to support Pennsylvanians impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits. That funding is going to Feeding Pennsylvania, a nonprofit that partners with food banks across the Commonwealth to distribute food. The administration also launched a private-sector fundraising effort to help local food banks meet the increased demand.

The good news is that in Pennsylvania, any benefits already issued are secure and will not be taken back. However, some families may still experience partial payments or delays as the appeal process continues.

If you receive SNAP, you can check your EBT balance or get updates by calling the PA Department of Human Services at 1-877-395-8930, visiting the ConnectEBT app or reach out to my office for help.

What’s the Status of Our State Budget?

Many of you have asked about the status of budget negotiations in Harrisburg as the impasse continues. This morning, Speaker Joanna McClinton announced that she is calling us into session this Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.

I am hopeful that this means the budget deal we’ve been negotiating for weeks is finally complete and ready for a vote in both the State House and Senate. With divided government in Pennsylvania, I know that any budget agreement will require compromise from both sides to get it across the finish line. The people of Pennsylvania have been waiting long enough – I am ready to vote for a compromise budget when we return to the Capitol. I will continue to keep you updated on the state budget in this e-newsletter.

Federal Budget Update

It appears that some progress has been made on the federal budget impasse as well.

On Sunday night, eight Democratic senators joined Republicans on a procedural move, which will be followed by a floor vote sometime on Monday. Even if the Senate passes a budget, Speaker Johnson will need to call Congress back into session, as no votes have been held since September 19.

If you have opinions about what is happening at the federal level, now is the time to make your voice heard.

Crozer-Chester Medical Center Update

Last Tuesday, the judge in Texas who is overseeing the bankruptcy case for Crozer held another hearing. Prospect Medical Holdings told the Judge they will be proposing some plan modifications and will be ready for confirmation on November 18. As of right now, the judge has not yet approved the sale of Crozer-Chester or Springfield Hospitals, but negotiations continue.

This story has more information on where things stood at the end of last week: Fates of Crozer-Chester, Springfield Hospitals Still Unclear.

In the Capitol

No Shut-Off Pledge from Utility Companies

As the federal government shutdown continues to disrupt programs that help families in Pennsylvania, I joined my colleagues in urging the Pennsylvania Utility Commission (PUC) and utility companies to pause any shutoffs for heat related services until the LIHEAP program officially reopens on December 3. You can read the full letter here .

Last week, Governor Shapiro announced that the PUC has secured commitments from utility companies, like PECO, to not turn off heat or electricity in November for LIHEAP eligible household affected by the federal government shutdown.

LIHEAP, which helps families with home heating costs, is a federally funded program administered by the Department of Human Services. The start of the 2025 LIHEAP season was delayed by one month, beginning December 3, due to the federal government shutdown. However, DHS is still accepting LIHEAP applications and will continue processing them along with other benefits programs during this time. On average, Pennsylvania receives more than $215 million in LIHEAP funding.

If you are struggling with staying on top of your heating/electric bill, PECO has a program called the Customer Assistance Program (CAP). This program helps PECO customers set up payment plans and credits. If you need assistance, reach out to my office.

For immediate help during the federal government shutdown, you can visit PA Navigate to find local resources and assistance.

In the District

Upcoming Office Closures

My office is closed on Tuesday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day. The office will reopen at 9 AM on Wednesday, November 12.

This Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to thank the brave men and women in our community who have served our country. Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice protect the freedoms we all cherish.

Here in Delaware County, we are fortunate to have so many veterans who continue to give back as leaders, mentors, and volunteers. I am deeply grateful for your service and ongoing commitment.

If you are a veteran or know someone who is, please remember that my office is here to help connect you with local programs and services that support those who served.

Veteran’s Day Events in the District – Brookhaven and Aston

Last Thursday, I joined Brookhaven American Legion Post 94 for their annual Veterans Day service at the Brookhaven Municipal Building. I am grateful to our veterans for the service and sacrifices they have made for our country and communities, defending our democracy and freedoms.

On Sunday, I was honored to attend the Flags for Heroes Veterans Day event in Aston Township. Our veterans have given so much to defend our freedom, and we must always be grateful for their service and sacrifice.

Recognizing Lawrence Simon – Official DJ for Aston’s National Night Out

Last week, I had the pleasure of presenting a citation to Lawrence Simon for being named the official DJ for Aston Township’s National Night Out program. It was wonderful to celebrate Lawrence in person and recognize his contributions to our community. With us in the photo us Indira Ridgeway, the Executive Director of the House Commerce Committee.

Through his dedication and creativity, he helps bring people together and embodies the spirit of safety, unity, and community pride that the program stands for.

Flag Raising Ceremony at Aston Elementary

Yesterday morning, I was delighted to join Aston Elementary for their annual Veterans Day breakfast and flag-raising ceremony in Aston Township. Students invited the veterans in their families to be honored and celebrated, and I was thrilled to meet some of them. Principal Susan Phillips and her team always do a fantastic job organizing the event, and it was nice to catch up with Penn-Delco Superintendent George Steinhoff.

Important Programs and Services

SNAP Work Requirements

If you receive SNAP benefits, there are some new work and reporting rules you should know about.

If you receive SNAP benefits, are between the ages of 18 and 64, do not have a dependent child under 14, and are physically and mentally able to work, you must now report at least 20 hours per week of work, education, training, or volunteering.

SNAP recipients who do not meet these requirements will only be eligible for three months of benefits within a three-year period.

There are some exemptions to these new work requirements. Check the graphic below to see if you qualify for one.

Remember to keep your address up to date with DHS and the United States Postal Service so you won’t miss any important information about your benefits.

If you have questions or need help understanding the new requirements, you can contact DHS directly at 1-877—395-8930, visit the DHS website , or reach out to my office.

Property Tax / Rent Rebate Program is OPEN

There's still time to apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate!

The deadline to apply is December 31, 2025.

You may be eligible for a Property Tax/Rent Rebate for claim year 2024 if you meet the requirements:

~You were 65 or older as of Dec. 31, 2024
~ Widow or widower during all or part of 2024 and were 50 and older
~ Permanently disabled and 18 or older during all or part of 2024
~Total eligible annual household income - $46,520 or less
*note: when calculating total income, exclude one-half of your Social Security benefits.

Call my office at 610-534-6880 to find out if you qualify and to get help applying.

PennDOT Virtual Public Meeting

Project: Chichester Ave, I-95 Ramps Roundabout

Wednesday, November 12 at 7 PM

PennDOT will be holding a live, virtual public meeting for the upcoming project to improve travel and safety on Chichester Ave. by constructing two roundabouts at two intersections at the ramps to Interstate 95 in Upper Chichester Township.

The project also features installing intersection lighting; reconstructing sidewalks and ADA curb ramps; improving drainage; and constructing stormwater management.

If you are interested in attending, click on this Microsoft Live Teams meeting link prior to the presentation start time.

Anyone with special needs or requiring special aid is requested to contact PennDOT Project Manager Vince Cerbone at 610-205-6778, or PennDOT Consultant Design Project Manager Nathan Parrish at 610-757-1881.

Members of the public who are unable to attend the online meeting can view the recording and a copy of the materials on the project webpage following the presentation. The public can also provide feedback using the online comment form.

Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.pa.gov/DOTprojects. Subscribe to PennDOT news and find transportation results in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District6

Our Events

Upcoming November Mobile Office Hours

*Due to Veteran’s Day on Tuesday, November 11, we will not be holding Mobile Office Hours in Chester Township, DCHA Fairgrounds.

Woodlyn

Thursday, November 13

1 PM – 3 PM

DCHA Kinder Park – Building 4 Community Room

1857 Constitution Ave., Woodlyn

Upland Borough

Tuesday, November 18

1 PM – 3 PM

MacQueen Hall – 224 Castle Ave., Upland

Crum Lynne

Thursday, November 20

1 PM – 3 PM

Vauclain Fire Company

1201 Haverford Rd., Crum Lynne

Diaper Drive

Accepting Donations Through Friday, December 12

My office is hosting a Diaper Drive benefiting Healthy Start, Nurse-Family Partnerships, WIC, and the Maternity Care Coalition. Please drop off donated new, unused diapers, baby formula, and wipes at the following locations:

Brookhaven District Office

115 E Brookhaven Rd., Brookhaven, PA 19015

Ridley Area YMCA

900 South Ave., Secane, PA 19018

Rocky Run YMCA

1299 W. Baltimore Pike, Media, PA 19063

For additional information call my office at 610-534-6880.

Toys for Tots Collection Drop Off