Dear Neighbor,

This week, the PA House passed legislation authored by state Rep. Lisa Borowski that would give the Attorney General’s office stronger authority and better tools to review hospital and nursing home mergers, acquisitions and consolidations involving private equity.

I was a prime co-sponsor of this bill alongside my colleagues in Delaware County because of what happened with Crozer Health System here in Delco. Our community witnessed firsthand how Prospect Medical Holdings gutted our local hospital, extracting over $457 million through real estate deals and leaving behind a shell of a health care system. Crozer’s subsequent collapse devastated patients, workers and families.

These are exactly the kinds of predatory deals that House Bill 1460 would stop. If signed into law, it would help ensure that what happened at Crozer can never happen again anywhere in Pennsylvania.

The bill passed the House with bipartisan support and now awaits consideration in the state Senate. Click here to learn more about H.B. 1460.

Celebrating Juneteenth

?????? Juneteenth is a day of freedom, reflection, and celebration.

Next Thursday, on June 19th, we honor the strength and resilience of Black Americans, recognize the deep roots of injustice, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of equity and liberation.

In observation of Juneteenth, my office will be closed. Normal office hours will resume on Friday, June 20th.

There will be two community events happening on Thursday.

Delaware County is hosting their annual Juneteenth event at Rose Tree Park. This free, family-friendly event will feature live music, spoken word, food trucks, kids’ activities, community resources, and a wide array of Black-owned vendors offering artwork, jewelry, crafts, and more. The event opens at 4:00 PM with food trucks and vendors and concludes with a 7:30 PM headline performance by Philly Gumbo on the main Rose Tree Amphitheater stage.

The Historically Black Neighborhood of Swarthmore is hosting their annual observance on the front lawn of Wesley AME Church. Startin at 6:00 PM with a Juneteenth observation, it will be followed immediately by community fellowship.

National Counseling Compact bill advances to the Senate

Last week, the House passed H.B. 668, my bill with Rep. Tim Brennan to help more Pennsylvanians access mental health care.

By joining the National Counseling Compact, licensed counselors could provide care across state lines—making it easier for patients to keep seeing the providers they trust, no matter where they live, study, or work.

With 62% of PA communities underserved, this bill is a big step toward expanding access. An American dies by suicide every 11 minutes, and this legislation would remove the barrier of a state line that too often prevents people from receiving the life-saving care they need.

As we wait for the Senate to bring this bill to a vote, friendly reminder that free, confidential help is always available by calling or texting 9-8-8.

Delco shows up proud – rain or shine! ??

Nothing can dampen our PRIDE here in Delco! ?? ?? Grateful to UDTJ for organizing such a fantastic day in Media to kick of Pride Month. Rain or shine, we are here to stand in collective solidarity with all in the LGBTQIA+ community! ???‍?????‍??

Property Tax/Rent Rebate forms

We have 2024 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program booklets available at my district office in Media. As a reminder, my staff are happy to assist you with the rebate application process. The deadline for this year was recently extended to Dec. 31st, but the sooner you file, the sooner you receive your rebate.

From story time to showtime: A sweet visit to Step by Step

I was happy to stop by Step by Step in Morton to share one of Katherine’s favorite books with them. They then shared their performance of their graduation song with me. Thank you for having me! Visiting my youngest constituents is always a joy.

FAFSA deadline is June 30th

Attention all college students; The deadline to apply for Federal Student Aid is June 30th! Completing the FAFSA before the deadline ensures your chance to receive federal assistance toward higher education. To submit your FAFSA and find more information, visit: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.

Celebrating all things Delco  

This past week also saw Delco Day! 6/10, in honor of the 610 area code, is a day to celebrate all things Delco – from Media to Upper Darby, from Wawa to “wooder ice.” Delco is a wonderful place and one that I am very proud to call my home. #DelcoDay

It’s time for paid leave in PA

Last week, I reiterated my support for the Family Care Act, a bipartisan bill I co-sponsored that would establish a statewide paid family and medical leave program here in Pennsylvania.

Right now, over 60% of Pennsylvania workers lack access to paid leave – meaning millions must choose between a paycheck and caring for a new child, a seriously ill loved one or their own well-being. This is a struggle I know all too well.

Other states demonstrate that paid leave programs can work for both workers and employers, and our bill follows a similar path. It offers flexibility for businesses, protects small employers and ensures benefits are broadly accessible.

Paid leave strengthens families, boosts productivity and keeps our economy competitive. It’s time for Pennsylvania to catch up by passing the Family Care Act.

Visiting Bartram’s Garden

I joined fellow members of the PA House Southeast Delegation and the Philadelphia House Delegation on a wonderful visit to Bartram's Garden. Despite the rainy weather, it was wonderful to learn about their upcoming projects as well as their ongoing programs and partnerships. A special shout out to my friend and colleague state Rep. Regina Young for hosting us in her district today!

Celebrate Dairy Month with udder-ly delicious sweet treats 

June is Dairy Month – the perfect time to milk the fun on Pennsylvania’s Ice Cream Trail! ?? VisitPA is scooping up sweet rewards for those who check out the state’s top creameries now through Sept. 7th. This is a great opportunity to treat yourself and support local dairy.

Upcoming Events

Dining Under the Stars
Weekly on Wednesdays, starting at 5 PM
State Street in Media

Swarthmore Farmers Market
Weekly on Saturdays, 9 AM to 12 PM
Swarthmore Borough Parking Lot

Media Farmers Market
Weekly on Sundays, 10 AM to 1 PM
Edgemont Avenue between Front and State Streets

State Street Car Show
Sunday, June 1st, Noon to 3 PM

State Street in Media

Morton’s Juneteenth Potluck Picnic in the Park
Saturday, June 12th, Noon
500 Highland Ave. Morton PA 19070

Delco’s 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Thursday, June 19th, 4 PM to 9 PM

Rose Tree Park

Historically Black Neighborhood of Swarthmore Juneteenth Observation
Thursday, June 19th, 6 PM to 7:30 PM
Wesley AME Church

Sincerely,

Rep. Jennifer O'Mara

Pennsylvania State Capitol
217 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202165

Harrisburg, PA 17120-2165
(717) 783-4090

District Office

26 E. 4th Street

Media, PA 19063-3042
(610) 544-9878