Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility May 23 e-mail: Supporting Pennsylvania's law enforcement officers

May 23 e-mail: Supporting Pennsylvania's law enforcement officers

Dear Friends,

 

I hope this email finds you well. As we wrap up another busy Session Week in Harrisburg, I wanted to take a moment to update you on the work we’ve been doing to support law enforcement, strengthen communities, and improve the lives of older Pennsylvanians.

Supporting Our Law Enforcement Officers

I was honored to stand alongside my colleagues in announcing the formation of the House Law Enforcement Caucus—a bipartisan initiative dedicated to ensuring our officers have the resources they need to protect and serve effectively. This caucus is committed to fostering safer communities across the Commonwealth while working closely with law enforcement leaders to advance meaningful legislation.

A highlight of the inaugural meeting was the strong support for my bill, HB 237—Bryan’s Law, which ensures that emergency and law enforcement personnel receive the benefits they deserve. HB 237, based on the federal Public Safety Officer Support Act of 2022, would extend line-of-duty death benefits to the families of first responders who die by suicide due to suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their line of work.
 
These brave men and women, who dedicate their lives to protecting the health and safety of the Commonwealth, deserve to have their families taken care of if tragedy directly strikes them, in whatever form.

 

I deeply appreciate the enthusiasm of the Law Enforcement Advisory Council, and together, we are making strides toward a safer Pennsylvania. 

 

HB 237 is currently in the House Veteran Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.   

Celebrating the Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation

This week, we proudly welcomed the Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation to the House to celebrate its 50th Anniversary. For half a century, this organization has served as a beacon of hope for immigrant communities, fostering unity and empowerment.  A premier health and human services organization of the Asian American community, their dedication to supporting individuals and families is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing their continued impact for many years to come.

Advancing Support for Older Adults

Exciting progress was made in the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee, where two bipartisan bills moved forward with unanimous support:

  • HB 372/PN 328 (Rep. Lou Schmitt): This bill enhances transparency by requiring the PA Department of Aging to annually publicly share compliance reports for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), ensuring accountability in services for seniors.
     
  • HB 923/PN 958 (Reps. Nikki Rivera & Shelby Labs): This bill extends the Social Security COLA Moratorium for individuals enrolled in PACE and PACENET by two years, helping older Pennsylvanians maintain vital financial support.

I am proud to work alongside my colleagues in championing policies that improve quality of life across our Commonwealth. Your continued support and engagement help drive these efforts forward.

 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts, concerns, or ideas. I value your input and look forward to hearing from you.

Upcoming Events

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!

Have a great week,

PA Representative Melissa Cerrato's signature image

Melissa Cerrato

 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

122 Irvis Office Building

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 772-1999

District Office

605 Horsham Rd.
Horsham, PA 19044

(267) 282-6695