Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Brian's Briefing for April 11: Bipartisan Law Enforcement Caucus formed; Working on mass transit solutions

Brian's Briefing for April 11: Bipartisan Law Enforcement Caucus formed; Working on mass transit solutions

Dear Neighbors,

 

There’s been a lot happening—both in Harrisburg and across our district—and I want to keep you updated on a few key developments.

 

This week marked the launch of the bipartisan Law Enforcement Caucus, which I’m honored to create and chair. The goal is simple: bring both sides together to support our police while promoting effective, community-driven public safety solutions.

 

At the same time, I’m deeply concerned about SEPTA’s proposed fare hikes and service reductions. These changes would create real hardships for riders who depend on reliable, affordable public transit—and I’ll be working to hold SEPTA accountable.

 

Inside this email, you’ll also find important info for last-minute tax filers and details about my upcoming REAL ID Clinic.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about state government, feel free to reply to this email or call my office at (215) 323-6997.

 

In Service,

Brian

PA Representative Brian Munroe's signature image

Brian

 
Video

A bipartisan effort to help make our communities safer

When I took office in Harrisburg, I immediately saw the gap between the laws we create and their real-world impact on local law enforcement. This drove me to reach across the aisle, and I’m incredibly proud to announce the establishment of the bipartisan Law Enforcement Caucus.

 

As chair of this caucus, I’m excited to bring together key stakeholders to bridge the communication gap between lawmakers in Harrisburg and the brave men and women on the streets. We’re united in our mission to make Pennsylvania communities safer, and I truly believe this effort could serve as a national blueprint for bipartisanship in action.

 

Our initiative isn’t just about supporting law enforcement—it’s about fostering collaboration between policymakers and the law enforcement community to craft legislative solutions that enhance public safety. Together, we’ll focus on improving training and resources for officers while building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they protect.

 

As a former police officer, I understand the daily challenges law enforcement faces. But I also recognize how critical it is to build greater trust and understanding between officers and the communities they serve. This caucus will help provide the critical support our officers need while fostering stronger ties with the public, ensuring our safety initiatives benefit everyone.

 

I’m honored to chair this caucus alongside my colleague state Rep. Eric Weaknecht, R-Berks, a former Berks County deputy sheriff. This is truly a bipartisan effort to advance meaningful legislation that supports law enforcement in Pennsylvania.

 

Our first meeting took place immediately after the announcement, and I’m confident that by working together—law enforcement, legislators, and the public—we can create policies that truly support our officers and foster safer communities for every Pennsylvanian. This caucus is a unique opportunity for current and retired law enforcement professionals to shape the future of public safety and leave a lasting impact.

 

 

Shred a little happiness

This past Saturday, we had a wonderful turnout at our April shred event.

 

Constituent services are a major part of what we do and events like these are services we are happy to offer.

 

Thank you to all my staff and volunteers for your help and commitment to our community.

 

 

Working on mass transit solutions

I am deeply concerned about SEPTA’s proposed fare hikes and service reductions – especially the impact they will have on working families and communities in our district.

 

A 21.5% fare increase is not just a number on paper. It’s a real, added burden on the backs of working people who rely on public transportation every day to get to work, school, medical appointments, and more. We should be making it easier for people to access jobs and opportunities, not pricing them out of the system they depend on.

 

I am particularly alarmed by the proposed service reductions on both the Warminster Line and the Lansdale/Doylestown Line – routes that many of our neighbors count on. These cuts would leave residents with fewer options and longer, less reliable commutes. Meanwhile, Route 55 through Warrington – a vital connection for many in our area – would remain unchanged for now, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe from future threats if we don’t act.

 

We should be investing in mass transit – expanding it, improving it, and making it more accessible – not eliminating or reducing service. That’s why I’ve been proud to host community meetings with the Doylestown Area Regional Transit to explore options for expanding local transit and ensuring that our region has reliable, accessible, and sustainable transportation for all.

 

This is about more than just train schedules or bus routes. It’s about jobs. It’s about the environment. It’s about economic growth and quality of life in Bucks County and across southeastern Pennsylvania.

 

The PA House has already acted. We’ve passed legislation three times to fund SEPTA and mass transit across the state. Gov. Josh Shapiro has made transit funding a priority in both of his budget proposals. The only thing standing in the way is inaction in the state Senate.

 

Let me be clear: SEPTA’s warning is not a scare tactic – it’s a reality check. If the legislature doesn’t act, we will all feel the consequences. More traffic congestion, higher commuting costs, and fewer options for the people who need them most. I stand firmly with the riders, the workers, and the communities that rely on SEPTA. It’s time to fund public transit – and to protect the future of our region.

 

 

Assistance with state taxes

As the April 15 deadline to file 2024 Pennsylvania personal income tax returns approaches, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is extending its call center hours to assist late-season filers. Taxpayers can call (717) 787-8201 during the extended hours:

  • Through April 11: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • April 12 (Saturday): 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • April 14–15: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Additional support is available through:

Free filing options:

  • myPATH: file state taxes online without creating an account.
  • Direct File: new this season, lets eligible taxpayers file both federal and state returns in one place.

 Available tax credits:

  • Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Credit
  • Tax Forgiveness (Special Poverty) for retired and low-income individuals

Anyone earning more than $33 in taxable income in 2024 must file a return by midnight, April 15.

 

 

A REAL opportunity

Join my staff and me for our REAL ID Clinic from noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at William Tennent High School Auditorium, located at 333 Centennial Rd. in Warminster.

 

With the REAL ID enforcement date quickly approaching on May 7, this event is a great opportunity to get all your questions answered about the REAL ID process. I’ll be joined by Bucks County Register of Wills Linda Bobrin, representatives from PennDOT, and staff from the office of Senator John Fetterman. We’ll all be there to help you understand what’s needed to get your REAL ID.

 

Please note that REAL IDs will not be distributed at this event. It’s purely informational and will guide you through the steps and requirements.

Since space is limited, RSVP is required. You can reserve your spot here.

For more information about the optional REAL ID program, visit PennDOT’s REAL ID page.

 

Remote Office Hours

To make my office’s constituent services as widely available as possible, I've established remote office hours at local township buildings around the district.

 

We are at the following locations from 10 a.m. – noon on the days indicated:

  • Warrington Township Building: Third Tuesday every month; next is April 15
  • Warminster Library: Third Wednesday every month; next is April 16
  • Warminster Township Building: First Tuesday every month; next is May 6
  • Ivyland Borough: Second Tuesday every month; next is May 13

Specialty office hours

To help focus on specific needs, my staff and I have established specialty hours where outside experts come in to help guide our residents.  An appointment is needed for these hours. Please call (215) 323-6997 to schedule.

  • Veterans Services (9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)  Second Monday every month; next is April 14
  • Human Services (with the Bucks County Hub), Final Tuesday every month; next is April 29
  • Advance Care Planning, First Wednesday every month; next is May 7

 

Until next time...

I hope you found this edition of my e-newsletter useful. I’d love your feedback on what parts you find valuable and how we could improve – please email your thoughts to me at RepMunroe@pahouse.net.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

104-B East Wing

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 772-1983

District Office

1410A West Street Rd.
Warminster, PA 18974

(215) 323-6997