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Matzie: Center at the Mall secures nearly $72,000 for programs and services

(Jun 04, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 4 – New funding of $71,880 will help ensure that Center Township-based Center at the Mall can continue offering a full range of enriching programs and services for area seniors, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said the funding will support programs and services that stimulate seniors’ minds and help them stay healthy. “Science tells us that staying physically and mentally active are keys to aging well, and area seniors have resources for both through Center at the Mall, where free membership provides access to a wide range of engaging programs and services,” Matzie said. “The new funding will allow the center to continue offering activities like healthy lunches, fitness classes, computer labs, group trips, and celebrations that bring seniors together and keep them thriving.” The grant was awarded through the state Department of Aging. More information is available here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/aging/newsroom/shapiro-admin-invests-3-million-in-422-senior-centers Read more

 

State House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution to study costs, benefits of remaining with grid operator PJM

(Jun 04, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, June 3 – The Pennsylvania House today unanimously adopted Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution ( H.R. 361 ) directing the state to study the financial costs and benefits of remaining part of the PJM Interconnection – the regional transmission organization that manages Pennsylvania’s electric grid. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said that a study is needed in light of recent spikes in electricity prices in some parts of the state, which have prompted concerns and calls for reform from lawmakers. “With calls for reform from House lawmakers and the governor, it’s time to take a closer look to ensure that staying with PJM is the best option,” Matzie said. “We hear every day from our constituents about the rising costs of energy. All options should be on the table, and all avenues should be explored. This study will give policy makers the facts and figures needed to make informed decisions moving forward.” Matzie said that the study – which will be conducted by the Joint State Government Commission – will examine the financial risks and benefits associated with PJM membership and evaluate the impact of PJM membership on residential, commercial and industrial electricity customers. The PJM Interconnection manages the electric transmission grid in all or part of 13 states and the District of Columbia. Read more

 

Matzie: Beaver County Career and Technology Center secures nearly $70,000 for new equipment

(Jun 03, 2026) Southwest Delegation

AMBRIDGE, June 3 – New funding of $68,700 from the state Department of Education will allow Beaver County Career and Technology Center to purchase a new vehicle and utility trailer for its greenhouse and landscaping program, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said the funding will allow BCCTC to continue its tradition of excellence in the region. “Beaver County Career and Technology Center has been providing top-notch career training for nearly 50 years through courses that offer experienced faculty and state-of-the-art equipment,” Matzie said. “The new funding will allow the school to purchase a truck and utility trailer for the center’s greenhouse and landscaping program, which offers hands-on experience to help students step into careers in agribusiness, general farming and horticulture.” Matzie said BCCTC will use the funds to purchase a Ford F-250 Regular Cab truck and a 2026 Quality Trailer 77x14 Economy Tandem Axle Utility Trailer. The grant was awarded through PDE’s Competitive Equipment Grants program. More information about the program is available here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/programs-and-services/instruction/career-and-technical-education/grants . Read more

 

Matzie: McCarl’s LLC investing $15 million for Beaver County expansion

(May 20, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, May 20 – Industrial and mechanical fabricator McCarl’s LLC is investing $15 million to expand its operations in Beaver County, where the company has purchased an 80,000-square-foot facility on the Ohio River between Aliquippa and Hopewell Twp. to serve as a fabrication hub and headquarters, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said the company is expanding its pipe fabrication operations to meet growing demand and that Beaver County’s workforce is ready to meet that demand. "This was an important project that I have been advocating for over a year and in constant contact with the Governor's office, Ken Burk from McCarls, Lew Villotti at the Beaver County Corporation for Economic Development and our Building and Construction Trades," said Matzie. "Keeping and creating more jobs for Beaver County was the driving factor in securing this funding and will be another cornerstone in continued growth in our industrial sites in my district, Beaver County and our region. “McCarl’s investment – which will be strengthened by an additional state investment of $2 million – is a testament to their faith in the talent of our regions skilled workforce, who time and again have proven their capacity to meet and exceed demand,” said Matzie. “The expansion is estimated to create 130 new jobs, and our workforce is more than Read more

 

Matzie: $250,000 secured for HVAC pre-apprenticeship program

(May 06, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, May 6 – Beaver County students will benefit from pre-apprenticeship opportunities in the HVAC field thanks to a $250,000 grant from the state Department of Labor and Industry, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie said the Schools-to-Work grant to Steamfitters Local Union No. 449 Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee will fund the launch of an HVAC pre-apprenticeship program connecting students to in-demand jobs through hands-on training and industry partnerships. “It’s an excellent opportunity for students on the career path because new construction, the state’s cold winters and hot summers, and incentives to embrace new, energy-efficient technology are all driving demand for skilled HVAC technicians,” said Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “Pre-apprenticeships are the perfect conduit because they supply the hands-on experience and connections with industry partners that can help students hit the ground running.” Matzie said the program will benefit students in Beaver and other western Pennsylvania counties. Schools-to-Work grant funding is awarded to employers, schools and community organizations to help create, launch and maintain registered pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship career pathways that bridge the gap between high school or college graduation and the job search process. More information about the program is Read more

 

House adopts Matzie resolution designating May 9, 2026, as ‘National Train Day’ in Pennsylvania

(May 05, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, May 5 – The Pennsylvania House today adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating May 9, 2026, as “National Train Day” in Pennsylvania. Matzie said he introduced H.R. 410 as a reminder of the central role railroads have played in shaping Pennsylvania’s history and their ongoing importance to the commonwealth. “The growth of the railroads literally transformed our landscape, and here in southwestern PA, the impact was profound,” said Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus and a member of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. “Railroads provided the critical link between our coal mines and steel mills. In return, those industries provided railroads with coal for fuel and steel for cars and track. It was an alliance that powered progress for a century, created communities and left a legacy of pride.” Matzie said that today, trains continue to benefit the commonwealth by reducing highway congestion, substantially cutting emissions, lowering the risk of accidents, connecting the state’s economic centers and providing greater mobility for people with limited transportation options. National Train Day was first established in 2008 and is celebrated annually on the Saturday closest to May 10 – the day the nation’s first transcontinental railway was completed in 1869 in Promontory, Utah. Read more

 

Matzie: $35,000 secured for Beaver County environmental education programs

(May 01, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

“Beyond the hands-on lessons, these programs encourage students to think from a broader perspective, including how food access, water quality and other issues affect their community and how they can problem-solve to make a difference,” Matzie said. “For some students, those early lessons plant the seeds for a lifelong career in agriculture or environmental science.” Read more

 

House adopts Matzie resolution designating April 2026 as ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ in Pennsylvania

(Apr 23, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 23 – The Pennsylvania House last week adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating April 2026 as “Limb Loss Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. Matzie said he introduced H.R. 404 – which the House adopted by an overwhelming bipartisan majority on April 15 – to foster greater awareness about the multiple challenges faced by people who have lost a limb and those with a limb that is anatomically different in size, shape or structure compared to “typical” limbs. “According to a recent study commissioned by the Amputee Coalition, there are more than 5.6 million people in the United States living with limb loss or limb difference,” said Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “Many of them successfully navigate jobs, household duties and family and social responsibilities despite multiple physical, psychological, financial and logistical challenges. I introduced this resolution to honor their courage and resilience.” Matzie said he also introduced H.R. 404 to help people understand that the main cause of limb loss is preventable. “People often associate limb amputations with traumatic injuries, but in fact the main cause is vascular disease, including diabetes and peripheral artery disease,” Matzie said. “That means that limb loss is preventable in many cases through the right lifestyle changes to address Read more

 

House adopts Matzie ‘Safe Digging Month’ resolution

(Apr 16, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, April 16 – The Pennsylvania House Wednesday adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating April 2026 as “Pennsylvania 8-1-1 Safe Digging Month.” Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.R. 403 to make sure Pennsylvanians are aware that the law requires them to call 8-1-1 – the free “Call before You Dig” hotline – before embarking on any digging or excavation project. “Overhead powerlines may be easy to spot, but many of us forget that there is also a huge network of electric, gas, water and communications lines and structures buried beneath us,” Matzie said. “Any digging or excavating – even of the shallow kind – can create major safety hazards, service interruptions and damage requiring extensive repairs. It’s critically important for homeowners, business owners, contractors, excavators – anyone planning any kind of digging – to dial 8-1-1- at least three days before starting to dig, to allow utilities to mark underground structures beforehand. “It’s a free call that takes very little time and can prevent massive problems. It’s also the law.” Matzie said calling 8-1-1 is required even for shallow digging projects and those located directly on a homeowner’s private property. More information is available here: Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $750,000 secured for Beaver County youth programs

(Apr 16, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

ALIQUIPPA, April 16 – Two grants totaling nearly $750,000 from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will support new and improved programs aimed at steering Beaver County youth away from high-risk behaviors and onto a path for academic success, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said that a $446,627 grant to Keystone Wellness Programs will fund expanding the Drug Free Aliquippa Youth Coalition, strengthening Aliquippa Impact’s afterschool and summer programs and launching a cross-age mentoring initiative to connect high school coalition leaders with elementary school students. “Time and again, we’ve seen how these programs reduce absenteeism, boost grades and improve behavior by providing the one-on-one support, mentoring and sense of belonging that some young people may not find elsewhere,” Matzie said. “Those personal and social connections help them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in class and better navigate the world.” Matzie said that a second grant of $296,300 to the Aliquippa School District will allow the district to launch “The Healthy Minds Club,” a comprehensive afterschool program focused on helping grade school students overcome learning barriers. “The program will serve about 180 Aliquippa School District students in the first through sixth grades and will offer help Read more

 

Matzie: $650,000 secured to boost training opportunities for Beaver County workers

(Apr 15, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, April 15 – New funding of $650,000 to the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board will strengthen training and apprenticeship opportunities for Beaver County workers in the steel and construction industries, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said the new training opportunities will help workers maintain cutting-edge skills amidst changing industry demands. “Industry standards and practices are constantly changing as companies embrace newer technologies like AI and robotics and cleaner technologies like induction heating,” Matzie said. “The new funding will provide workers with the apprenticeship opportunities and innovative training models they need to keep pace and will ensure that our local industries have the talented workforce pool they need to stay competitive.” Matzie said the funding includes: $350,000 to support the Southwest Corner Building and Construction Industry Partnership’s efforts to upskill workers through registered apprenticeship programs and recruit workers from communities that are underrepresented in the construction trades. The grant will serve workers in Beaver County and several other counties. $300,000 to support the Pennsylvania Steel Alliance Industry Partnership’s efforts to upskill and reskill the existing steel workforce, expand access to innovative Read more

 

Matzie: More than $200K secured to fund compressed natural gas vehicles for Beaver County waste collection

(Mar 27, 2026) Southwest Delegation

AMBRIDGE, March 27 – A new $210,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will allow Beaver County residents and small businesses to reap the benefits of high-tech, compressed natural gas-powered vehicles, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said the grant awarded to Waste Management of Pennsylvania, Inc., will allow the company to purchase seven compressed natural gas waste vehicles to serve the county. “This is exciting news,” Matzie said. “Compressed natural gas vehicles require less fuel and maintenance, produce much lower emissions, and operate more quietly. All of that means savings for taxpayers, cleaner air in our neighborhoods and reduced noise for residents. I’m looking forward to seeing our communities reap the benefits of the new technology.” Compressed natural gas vehicles operate similarly to traditional gas-powered vehicles, but natural gas is stored in a fuel tank or cylinder, generally located at the back of the vehicle. It is estimated that they are 80% to 90% quieter than diesel trucks and produce up to 90% fewer emissions. The funding was awarded through the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant program. More information about the program is available here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/grants-loans-rebates/alternative-fuels-incentive-grant . Read more

 

Matzie: $225K secured for District 16 municipal planning, resources and equipment

(Mar 27, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, March 27 – State grant funding of $225,000 will deliver new resources to bolster projects, public works and police services in Beaver County, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said five separate grants approved through the state Department of Community and Economic development will help municipalities keep projects and operations running more smoothly. “The new grants will allow municipalities and departments in our district to address practical needs – replacement vehicles and equipment to keep services flowing, project funding for safer play spaces and planning resources to invite new economic development,” Matzie said. “It all adds up to improved quality of life. I’ll continue advocating and working with our state agencies and local partners to bring more of those dollars home to benefit residents.” Matzie said the funding includes: $75,000 to the city of Aliquippa to purchase public works equipment. $50,000 to Hopewell Township for playground upgrades and renovations. $50,000 to the Rochester Police Department for a new vehicle. $25,000 to the Center Township Police Department for new equipment. $25,000 to Monaca for planning initiatives for economic development. More information about DCED programs and funding is available here: https://dced.pa.gov/programs-funding Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to improve rail safety

(Mar 25, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 25 – The Pennsylvania House today passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver, to improve rail safety for both workers and the communities trains pass through. “It’s been three years since the catastrophe in East Palestine. We can’t sit around and wait for that to happen again,” said Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “I am glad the House took action to prevent the next rail disaster and make our communities and families safer by passing this bill. H.B. 1191 is a way we can start to reduce derailments and protect workers, first responders and community residents.” Matzie introduced H.B. 1191 to improve public safety at railroad crossings. The bill comes after a February 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, which released toxic chemicals, causing widespread environmental and health concerns. This bill would: Prohibit trains from blocking crossings, which could delay emergency responders. This can ensure faster response times. Limit the length of freight or work trains to 8,500 feet, or approximately 1.6 miles. Require safe staffing levels for trains or light engines, including a minimum of a two-person crew on a train or light engine. Authorize a union representative to monitor safety practices and operations of a railroad, which would allow a representative to take Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – With the commonwealth seeing a sharp rise in data center development, the Pennsylvania House today passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Rob Matzie that would ensure the centers’ massive energy demands do not drive up Pennsylvanians’ electricity bills. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.B. 1834 so the state can get the right regulatory framework in place now, as proposals for new data centers continue to mount. “Normally, if an electric company adds poles and wires or equipment, we all share in the costs. That’s because it’s making the delivery system better for all of us,” Matzie said. “That’s not the case with data centers. No one’s electric bill should ever go up because a data center has located in Pennsylvania, but we need to plan ahead to make sure that doesn’t happen. “It’s possible to protect ratepayers while still allowing the commonwealth to reap the tremendous economic benefits data centers can bring. Those goals are not mutually exclusive – as long as we get the right regulatory framework in place. My bill would do that.” Matzie said his bill would: Make sure that all costs incurred by data centers to get their electricity is paid for by them – not households and small businesses. Require data centers to contribute to universal service programs and supplement Read more

 

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies

(Mar 24, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

HARRISBURG, March 24 – The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association should update its policies to better protect student athletes participating in competitions, according to the newly released findings of a legislative study requested by state Rep. Rob Matzie. Matzie, who is chair of the House Majority Caucus and the longest-serving member of the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee, called on the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct the study based on concerns that PIAA’s system of classifying schools for competition puts student athletes at risk by forcing them to compete against wealthier schools with bigger budgets and larger rosters. “The study’s findings and recommendations demonstrate the need for updated PIAA policies relative to how transfers are monitored and adjudicated, where and how certain private, charter, and co-op schools get their student athletes, and how championship sites are determined,” Matzie said. “This vindicates the questions I’ve raised over the past several years, especially in regard to the treatment of the Aliquippa School District.” Matzie said the report recommends that PIAA: establish a statewide body to independently record, monitor and adjudicate student-athlete transfers among member schools. revise its policy for feeder schools, which pipeline Read more

 

Matzie applauds Zerfuss, PUC action on rail safety

(Feb 23, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Feb. 23 – State Rep. Rob Matzie today praised the Pennsylvania Utility Commission’s decision to review its rail safety regulations, saying the commission will consider some of the same safety measures in Matzie’s own rail safety bill that passed the House. The PUC’s action on Friday granting a motion for proposed rulemaking , offered by Commissioner Kathryn Zerfuss, mirrors Matzie’s call for stronger state regulation of rail safety, a move he says is needed in the absence of better federal oversight. “I applaud Commissioner Zerfuss and the PUC for taking the reins on rail safety, and I’m glad the commission plans to focus on some of the same reporting, oversight and equipment issues I call for in my rail safety legislation,” said Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus. “With thousands of miles of rail running through our region and federal regulations falling short, time is of the essence. We can’t afford to wait for another East Palestine.” Matzie said that PUC’s experts will review rail safety regulations with respect to five areas, including the proper functioning of wayside detectors – trackside sensors that warn when train cars are overheating because of problems that can cause derailment. That equipment is one focus of Matzie’s H.B. 1191 , which was adopted by the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Read more

 

Matzie: PIAA board made ‘the right decision’ in moving Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for next two years

(Feb 19, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Feb. 19 – State Rep. Rob Matzie issued the following statement regarding yesterday’s vote by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association board to reclassify the Aliquippa High School football program: “I’ve just been informed that the PIAA Board has voted to move Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for the next two years. “While the specifics of the determination haven’t been released, I’m pleased the board made the right decision after several attempts pleading the case. “I have shared the opinion of the Aliquippa School District that decisions related to the competitive balance formula should use actual enrollment and view each transfer on a case-by-case basis rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. “The study that I requested the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to perform of the PIAA and its competitive balance formula is expected to be released this spring. “I will always stand up for kids in my district and students all across Pennsylvania. The results of this ruling have always been about fairness and the health and safety of the kids.” Read more

 

Matzie: More than $265,000 secured for Beaver County fire, EMS companies

(Feb 17, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Feb. 17 – Fire and EMS companies in the 16 th Legislative District are on track to receive more than $265,200 in grant funding to help keep crews properly equipped and meet other department needs, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said departments will be able to use the funds for items such as personal protective gear, firefighting equipment, fuel, facility repairs, training, recruitment and retention, and other needs. “Our fire and EMS departments face a constant challenge keeping crews outfitted and trained, equipment updated, and facilities maintained – all on the tightest budgets,” Matzie said. “The new funding should help ease some of those costs and get more resources into the hands of those who work 24/7 to protect us.” Matzie said the funding includes: Ambridge Borough Fire Department – $13,457. Ambridge Volunteer Fire Department – $14,488. Baden Volunteer Fire Department – $16,137. Center Township Fire House No. 2 – $13,251. Center Township Volunteer Fire Department Co. No. 1 – $14,900. Center Township Volunteer Fire Department No. 3 – $12,426. City of Aliquippa DBA Aliquippa Bureau of Fire – $14,488. Conway Volunteer Fire Department – $14,488. Economy Vol. Ambulance Service – $15,000. Economy Volunteer Firemens Association Read more

 

Matzie: More than $1.6 million secured for Community College of Beaver County improvements

(Feb 05, 2026) Rep. Robert F. Matzie

powerhouse,” Matzie said. “I’m grateful for this new state investment, which will directly benefit our students, workers, and taxpayers.” Read more

 

Matzie: Center at the Mall secures nearly $72,000 for programs and services
Jun 04, 2026

State House unanimously adopts Matzie resolution to study costs, benefits of remaining with grid operator PJM
Jun 04, 2026

Matzie: Beaver County Career and Technology Center secures nearly $70,000 for new equipment
Jun 03, 2026

Matzie: McCarl’s LLC investing $15 million for Beaver County expansion
May 20, 2026

Matzie: $250,000 secured for HVAC pre-apprenticeship program
May 06, 2026

House adopts Matzie resolution designating May 9, 2026, as ‘National Train Day’ in Pennsylvania
May 05, 2026

Matzie: $35,000 secured for Beaver County environmental education programs
May 01, 2026

House adopts Matzie resolution designating April 2026 as ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ in Pennsylvania
Apr 23, 2026

House adopts Matzie ‘Safe Digging Month’ resolution
Apr 16, 2026

Matzie: Nearly $750,000 secured for Beaver County youth programs
Apr 16, 2026

Matzie: $650,000 secured to boost training opportunities for Beaver County workers
Apr 15, 2026

Matzie: More than $200K secured to fund compressed natural gas vehicles for Beaver County waste collection
Mar 27, 2026

Matzie: $225K secured for District 16 municipal planning, resources and equipment
Mar 27, 2026

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to improve rail safety
Mar 25, 2026

Pennsylvania House passes Matzie bill to protect utility consumers from data center-driven rate hikes
Mar 24, 2026

Matzie: Newly released study recommends changes to PIAA policies
Mar 24, 2026

Matzie applauds Zerfuss, PUC action on rail safety
Feb 23, 2026

Matzie: PIAA board made ‘the right decision’ in moving Aliquippa Football to Class 3A for next two years
Feb 19, 2026

Matzie: More than $265,000 secured for Beaver County fire, EMS companies
Feb 17, 2026

Matzie: More than $1.6 million secured for Community College of Beaver County improvements
Feb 05, 2026