August 1 email: Call the Senate to Stop SEPTA Cuts!

Rep. Melissa Cerrato August 1, 2025

Dear Friends,

We are now entering the sixth week of the budget impasse, and regrettably, there is still no resolution in sight. What’s even more troubling is the continued refusal of the Senate Majority to return to Harrisburg and fulfill their most fundamental responsibility: governing. This sustained absence is not just a dereliction of duty, it’s a betrayal of the people who elected them to serve.

I’ve tried to exercise patience. I’ve bitten my tongue and held back publicly expressing my deep frustration in hopes that quiet diplomacy might lead to progress. But patience, like time, is not unlimited and both have run out. Remaining silent hasn’t moved the needle. It hasn’t brought reason back to the table. And frankly, it hasn’t protected our communities from the harm that grows every day this impasse drags on.

In past years, delayed budgets have disrupted vital services and put strain on families, schools, and local governments. But this year, the consequences for our communities, particularly in the Southeast, will be exponentially more damaging. We are staring down the very real threat of a complete shutdown of SEPTA, a system that thousands rely on every single day to get to work, school, medical appointments, and more. The ripple effect of losing this lifeline will be devastating socially, economically, and operationally.

This isn't just about numbers on paper. It's about people. It’s about protecting the infrastructure that keeps our region connected, our economy moving, and our residents living their lives. We cannot afford political games and posturing while our communities are left hanging in the balance.

It’s time for the Senate Majority to come back to Harrisburg, get serious, and do the job they were elected to do. The stakes are far too high for anything less.

If you believe, as I do, that the Senate Majority must return and take action, if you understand the devastation that a SEPTA shutdown will bring to our neighborhoods and our economy, then now is the time to act.

I’m asking you to directly contact these Southeastern Majority Senators. Don’t just urge them to stand with us, demand that their leadership brings this budget to a vote. Ask them to lead. Ask them to act. Because delay is no longer acceptable.

?? Sen. Joe Picozzi — (215) 281-2539

?? Sen. Frank Farry — (215) 638-1784

?? Sen. Tracy Pennycuick — (215) 541-2388

Let’s make it clear: our communities are watching, our economy is hanging in the balance, and leadership must rise to meet this moment.

Now, back to our regularly scheduled updates…

?? Moving HB 1600 Forward to Support Childcare Excellence

During our recent meeting in the Children & Youth Committee, we voted to move House Bill 1600 to the House floor for a vote! This important legislation enhances Pennsylvania’s Keystone STARS Program, which evaluates and supports childcare providers across the state.

HB 1600 would:

- Make the program permanent in statute and clarify DHS oversight responsibilities

- Recognize and reward experienced childcare professionals for their years of hands-on service

- Increase transparency for families by encouraging providers to display their STAR ratings

- Streamline definitions and fee structures to improve accountability

This bill is about building a stronger, more equitable early education system, lifting up those who care for our kids and helping families make informed choices.

?? Advocating for Education Funding with PSEA

It was a pleasure meeting with Susan from Central Bucks, a passionate member of PSEA, who visited the state Capitol to advocate for greater investment in our public schools. Her dedication—and the voices of teachers like her—are a driving force in the push for a state budget that reflects our commitment to students, educators, and the future of our Commonwealth.

?? Happy Birthday from the House Floor

There’s something truly special about celebrating milestones at the Capitol, especially when we get to give a birthday shoutout on the PA House Floor! Happy Birthday, Alex, thank you for letting us be part of your day.

If you’re thinking about visiting the Capitol, my team is always here to help plan your trip, from parking and tours to observing House sessions in action.

?? Championing Democracy with Global Allies

I was honored to join my colleagues, including state Reps. Steve Malagari, Liz Hanbidge, and Ben Sanchez, and state Sens. Maria Collett and Art Haywood for a powerful discussion with visiting parliamentarians from across Europe, hosted by the Embassy of Lithuania in Washington, D.C.

With members of the United for Ukraine alliance, we explored possibilities forward for Ukraine, NATO membership, and the future of European security. While foreign policy decisions rests at the federal level, our conversation was a powerful reminder that every level of government has a role in supporting democratic values and global solidarity. Pennsylvania’s Ukrainian American community embodies that commitment, and I’m proud to stand with them.

Thank you, as always, for staying engaged with our work. Whether we’re passing legislation, meeting advocates, or honoring our democratic values, it’s your voices and support that keep us moving forward.

Upcoming Events

Fall Shredding Event

Join us for our Free Shredding Event—a fantastic opportunity to protect your personal information while making a positive impact on your community! ??????

Safely dispose of old documents and keep your sensitive information out of the wrong hands. Paper shredding is a powerful deterrent to identity theft, making it nearly impossible for thieves to reconstruct private details. Plus, shredding supports paper recycling, helping to reduce waste in landfills!

And here’s another way to give back—bring non-perishable food items for donation and support local food banks while you’re here.

We’re thrilled to offer this service once again for our constituents. Protect your identity, reduce waste, and help your community—all in one event! Hope to see you there!