May 16 e-mail: TOMORROW: See if you have money waiting for you at my unclaimed funds clinic!

Rep. Melissa Cerrato May 16, 2025

Dear Friends,

We've had an eventful and impactful time here in Harrisburg, and I will summarize last week and this week’s legislation next week when I have a bit more time to sit and summarize it all, but until then, I'm thrilled to share some important recent highlights with you.

First, a big hoot of appreciation for the Temple Owls who soared into Harrisburg for their annual “Owls on the Hill” Legislative Day! From meaningful conversations to celebrating the tremendous contributions of Temple Ambler in the 151st District, the energy and enthusiasm were undeniable as students advocated for continued funding of Temple University by the commonwealth. Thank you to the Temple community for continually making a difference—on campus and beyond.

Now for some exciting legislative news: Representative Aerion Abney's bill has officially been signed into law, bringing much-needed relief to Pennsylvania seniors aged 65+. Act 118 of 2024, formally HB2378, ensures that the principal and any interest accrued from savings bonds will no longer count toward income eligibility for Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) or PACE Needs Enhancement Tier (PACENET). This is a significant step forward in protecting access to affordable medications.

PACE and PACENET, funded entirely by the Pennsylvania Lottery, have been a lifeline for millions of older Pennsylvanians, helping them afford the prescriptions they rely on. With rising medication costs far outpacing inflation and Social Security COLA adjustments, this change helps ensure that seniors who have planned ahead financially aren’t penalized when accessing these vital benefits. Let’s celebrate this win for our community and continue advocating for affordable healthcare for all!

Additionally, I had the distinct honor of meeting Consul General Till Knorn of the German Consulate General New York at a special interfaith Iftar dinner, where we celebrated unity and cultural understanding. The following day, he addressed the House, and I had the privilege of joining a bipartisan lunch where we discussed Pennsylvania’s historic and strong relationship with Germany. From economic partnerships to cultural exchanges, our discussions highlighted promising opportunities to deepen collaboration. Thank you, Consul General Knorn, for your commitment to strengthening ties and fostering meaningful engagement.

As always, I appreciate your continued support and dedication to our community. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas you’d like to share.

Upcoming Events

Unclaimed Funds Clinic (Tomorrow)

Discover if you have unclaimed money waiting for you! Join us at our PA Unclaimed Funds Clinic to reclaim what's rightfully yours—it's quick, easy, and free!

SEPTA Key Card Event

We are proud to continue our partnership with SEPTA in helping our older constituents gain access to SEPTA Key Cards in the most convenient way! This card is provided to residents aged 65 or older and offers free rides on all SEPTA transit routes including buses, trolleys, subway, and regional rail. Additionally, seniors who wish to take SEPTA to Delaware or New Jersey will receive a 50% discount on fare when they tap their Senior Key Card.

We can assist in your application for an initial Senior SEPTA Key Photo Card as well as renewals. You are required to bring a government-issued ID that lists your birthdate, like a driver’s license or photo ID. At this time, the current time for SEPTA to process your application and send your Key Card is approximately 2-3 weeks. If you would prefer not to wait, you may apply or have your pass renewed at SEPTA Headquarters, located at 1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107. To do so, schedule an appointment with SEPTA at 215-580-7145.

In order to receive a replacement for a lost or stolen card you can send a $5 check or money order made payable to SEPTA to: SEPTA, P.O. Box 824833, Philadelphia, PA 19182. Be sure to include a note with your name, address, and date of birth.

Summer Open House

Come and explore our "home away from home" at our Summer Open House! Get to know me and my wonderful team in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We'll be serving light refreshments and can't wait to share an afternoon filled with great conversations and connections. We look forward to seeing you there!