As I continue my work in the 24th Legislative District, know that my staff and I work for you. If you have any concerns, contact me at RepMayes@pahouse.net or call my office at 412.665.5502.
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Delivering for You in Harrisburg
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This week, my colleagues in the House and I passed important bills that will help our neighbors and strengthen our communities:
We protected consumers by requiring disclosure of flood-related risk factors during the homebuying process (HB 1704); mandating that companies that collect personal information electronically take steps to protect that data from breaches (HB 997); establishing the Landslide and Sinkhole Insurance Program (HB 589); and giving consumers rights regarding their personal data while requiring certain businesses to protect consumer privacy and limit the collection of consumer information (HB 78).
We protected communities by closing loopholes in our laws and expanding background checks for long gun purchases (HB 1593).
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My office is always available to assist you with any state-level programs. Whether you have a question about unemployment, need help with PennDOT services, or would like to voice a legislative concern, we are here for you. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out—my office is here to work for you!
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I am thrilled to be hosting my first Maternal Health Fair NEXT WEEK—Thursday, October 9, from 3:00–6:00 PM at East Liberty Family Health Care Center in Lincoln-Lemington.
As Co-Chair of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus, I am committed to addressing Black maternal health in our community. This fair is another way I hope to educate our district about this important issue. There will be resources, free food, and I’ll be giving away 500 blood pressure monitors to our pregnant and postpartum neighbors!
A special thanks to my community partners, including East Liberty Family Health Care Center, GlobalLinks, First Steps & Beyond, and Hello Baby.
Register for the Maternal Health Fair HERE. Call my office at 412.665.5502 or email Tiana Staten at TStaten@pahouse.net for questions or more information. I look forward to seeing you next month!
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On Monday, House Bill 1212, the PA Dads Matter Act, sponsored by Rep. Aerion Abney, Allegheny County Delegation Chair, and Rep. Morgan Cephas, Co-Chair of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus, passed out of the House by a vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration.
This bill encourages father, partner, and non-birthing parent engagement in maternal health and will create a statewide education campaign. It is the third of twelve bills introduced by the Caucus to pass out of the House. The first two include my House Bill 1234, which requires Medicaid to cover clinically accurate at-home blood pressure monitors.
Read more about the PA MOMNIBUS legislative package at pahouse.com/BMH.
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PA Joins Northeast Public Health Collaborative
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Public health threats don’t respect state lines. That’s why Gov. Shapiro has announced that Pennsylvania will join several neighboring states in the Northeast Public Health Collaborative. This voluntary coalition strengthens public health by coordinating responses to disease outbreaks, improving vaccine access, and ensuring equitable care for all. As Co-Chair of the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus, one of my top priorities is promoting public health and wellness.
While each state maintains its independence, shared planning allows us to be better prepared and ensures that science and evidence guide our public health decisions. Learn more about the collaborative here.
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America250PA Now Accepting Applications for Semiquin Scholarship
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To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and honor Pennsylvania’s strong commitment to education, America250PA will be awarding $250,000 in scholarships to deserving Pennsylvania students attending in-state colleges next school year.
Any Pennsylvania high school senior who plans to attend a college or university in Pennsylvania for the 2026-27 academic year may apply. Twenty-five scholarships, totaling $10,000 each, will be awarded.
Applications are due January 31, 2026. More details, including matches by partner institutions, can be found here.
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Finding State Grant Funding
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If you’re searching for state grant funding, please remember that the state has a handy search tool, which you can find here. A list of grant programs currently accepting applications also is on my website located here.
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Late Night Basketball at West Penn Recreation Center
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As part of the Mayor and Pittsburgh Parks and Recreation's CitiSports program’s commitment to violence prevention and the creation of safe spaces for youth, this initiative serves as a critical component of Mayor Gainey’s violence prevention strategy. It aims to engage the city’s most at-risk youth by providing access to safe, welcoming environments and offering constructive activities that support both personal and professional growth.
Ensuring safe recreational spaces for our youth is essential to fostering healthy development, community engagement, and positive social behavior. These spaces provide young people with opportunities to stay active, build relationships, and explore their interests in a secure and supportive environment. Investing in Recreation Centers not only benefits young individuals but also strengthens communities by promoting well-being, equity, and a sense of belonging.
Join us on Friday nights for a fun-filled event!
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Big Changes Coming to SNAP Food Program
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Significant changes are coming to the SNAP food program that could cut off food assistance for many Pennsylvanians. Beginning September 1, more than 230,000 SNAP recipients in Pennsylvania will be subject to new work requirements to maintain their benefits under the federal so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.” Recipients who do not comply will be limited to receiving SNAP benefits for only three months within a three-year period.
There are exemptions in the law that allow some individuals to keep their benefits. My office, along with the Department of Human Services (DHS), can help you navigate these changes. For more information, visit the DHS Website or call them at 800.692.7462. You can also call my office at 412.665.5502.
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Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Deadline Extended
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You can apply for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2024. Last session, we passed landmark legislation that expanded eligibility, allowing more Pennsylvanians than ever to qualify. We also took another step forward by increasing the maximum annual income limit from $45,000 to $46,520.
This program is available to seniors 65 and older, widows and widowers 50 and older, and people with disabilities 18 and older.
For more information, to check your eligibility, and to apply, contact my office at 412.665.5502 or click here. The application deadline has been extended until December 31.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
111-A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1017
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District Office
2015-2017 Centre Avenue, Floor 1
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 665-5502
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