Dear Neighbor,

I’m pleased to share that as of Wednesday, the state has a balanced, bipartisan budget. I voted for this plan because this budget improves the lives of residents in Luzerne County by boosting investments in public education in the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, economic development, public safety and health care access – without raising taxes.

At just over $50 billion this plan is a compromise among the governor’s original proposal, House Democrats’ proposal, and the Senate wanting to flat-fund at a time of rising costs. It delivers the important services people need in the face of a totally unpredictable federal government.

This is a strong, balanced budget that will ensure that Pennsylvania continues to be the Keystone of our great nation and sets us up for continued success.

Exciting news! My plan establishing a statewide program providing benefit incentives to SNAP recipients purchasing qualifying fruits and vegetables was included in the state budget passed this week!

The incentive program included in the states’ fiscal code is similar to my H.B. 1096, which passed out of the House on June 3 with bipartisan support. Similar programs have been passed and implemented in other states and have been shown to improve diets through increased fruit and vegetable consumption. In addition to the $2 million in state funds allocated, matching dollars may be available from the federal government to stretch this investment even further.

This is a much-needed win for our SNAP recipients who faced a difficult time during the federal government shutdown. SNAP nutrition incentive programs like this can reduce hunger, support local farmers and retailers, and improve the health of Pennsylvanians.

I want to thank my colleagues and the advocates who worked with me to fund and get this program across the finish line – helping our neighbors’ benefits go further and bolstering our agricultural economy.

It was a pleasure welcoming the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center SADD Club to my Plains Office, where students helped decorate for the holiday season.

Thank you to Ms. Megan Bartuska and her students for their creativity and for spreading holiday cheer throughout the Tuft-Tex Complex!

Don’t forget: My district offices in Wilkes-Barre and Plains Township are collecting food for the CEO Weinberg Food Bank through November 24. As we’ve seen recently, it is more critical than ever to support our food banks.

If you’re able, I hope that you will donate whatever you can to help make sure that no one in our community goes hungry.

The recent federal government shutdown has delayed the opening of the LIHEAP home heating assistance program until Dec. 3. Although the Department of Human Services will continue processing preseason applications for LIHEAP and other benefits, payments are on hold as federal funding is restored.

In some good news, however, Gov. Josh Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission secured a commitment from the state’s utility companies not to turn off heat or electricity in November for LIHEAP-eligible residents impacted by the government shutdown.

Visit this page to read about other utility assistance programs. You can also visit https://www.pa-navigate.org/

My district office is partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps and Toys for Tots to bring joy to families in need this holiday season!

Now through December 12, you can drop off new, unwrapped toys, books, or homemade toys at my offices, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Please note: Toys for Tots cannot accept used toys, items that resemble realistic weapons, candy or food, or toys containing chemicals (such as experimental labs or crystal kits).

Let’s work together to make this holiday season brighter for every child in our community!

Due to rising costs, weather and uncertainty and delays with LIHEAP, the PUC is urging consumers to act now if they are worried about winter heating bills.

Here’s a checklist from the PUC on what you can do to prepare and stay connected to essential utility services: 

1. Review your utility bills. Understand your current rate and usage — and how colder weather can increase demand. 

2. Don’t wait to call. If you’re worried about paying your bill, contact your utility now to ask about assistance programs or payment plans. 

3. Ask about affordability programs. Utilities offer programs like CAPs, budget billing, and hardship funds that can reduce your monthly costs. 

4. Make small energy-saving changes. Lower your thermostat by one or two degrees, check furnace filters, and seal drafts — small actions that add up. 

Explore energy-saving tools. Visit PAPowerSwitch.com and PAGasSwitch.com for energy tips, shopping options, and more ways to save. 

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania by providing rebates ranging from $380 to $1,000 for eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities aged 18 and older.

Click here to learn whether you qualify, how much you would receive and to apply online.

The program deadline is coming up fast – Dec. 31, 2025. Reach out to my office if you have questions.

Let us continue to work together to build a stronger and safer America by searching for the TRUTH and finding the FACTS to guide our words, and our actions. Please, STAY STRONG and SAFE! Our democracy needs us to come together for the good of all.

Sincerely,

Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski

121st Legislative District