I will be attending a hearing on Wednesday, May 21 at 6:30 p.m. with leaders from Duquesne Light to get answers about the company’s response following the April 29 storms. The meeting will be open to the public and will be held at the Lauri Ann West Community Center, 1220 Powers Run Road. There will also be a live broadcast of the hearing at this page.

The state has launched a new security feature that allows recipients of public benefits to lock their EBT cards when not in use. This tool is designed to protect benefits like SNAP and TANF from theft – especially from card skimming, a growing problem nationwide.

The free ConnectEBT app allows users to lock their card to prevent unauthorized use and unlock it before making purchases. Users can choose to lock their card everywhere or only outside Pennsylvania. An optional auto re-lock feature adds even more protection. Visit this page to learn more, and click on the image above to watch a video about the new tool.

Last week, I voted for – and the House passed – bills that would:

• Authorize the Keystone Saves Program for workers who currently have no opportunity to save for retirement.
• Raise awareness of programs to help pay hospital costs
• Lessen the financial pain for patients facing breast cancer.
• Help counties treat incarcerated residents for substance use disorder.
• Allow townships to raise more money for fire and EMS services.
• Boost our economy by helping more businesses qualify for energy tax credits.
• Fight exploitation of construction workers.
• Reform our election process.
• Help people save to buy their first home.
• Raise pensions for veterans who lost sight or mobility.
• Fight blight by building a database of serious property code violations.

You can read more about these and other bills we passed here.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education has announced $2 million in funding to cover the cost of high school equivalency exams for eligible residents. Pennsylvanians can now take the GED or HiSET tests free at public testing sites or through online proctoring, while funds last. Visit this page to learn more.

Last week, I spoke at state Rep. Dan Miller’s Disability and Mental Health Summit about being an elected official with a disability. The summit featured excellent presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions with resources for residents, caregivers, and advocates.  

I loved getting a chance to attend the ribbon cutting for the Frick Park Sensory Trail, which will be a fabulous, inclusive resource for all residents needing to escape into the peace and calm of nature!

This is a reminder that our office will be closed Tuesday, May 20 for the municipal primary election. You can find your polling place here and additional voting information here.

This is a reminder that the state has a handy tool to help search for grants. Visit this page to search, or this page for a list of all the latest programs.

Please remember that my talented staff can help you with a variety of state-related matters, from filing for a Property Tax/Rent Rebate to obtaining a disability placard or senior bus pass – to name just a few. Contact us or stop by to see how we can help!

You can read my e-newsletter in a way that’s preferable to you by visiting my legislative website here and clicking on the accessibility icon in the lower right corner.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

123-B East Wing Main Capitol
Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 783-1914

District Office

501 Braddock Ave.
Braddock, PA 15104

(412) 273-3400

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