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Takac bill to equip doctors with better nutrition guidance wins House approval

(1 day ago)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 17 – Recognizing the critical role nutrition plays in preventing and managing chronic disease and strengthening rural health efforts, the Pennsylvania House today passed H.B. 1980 with bipartisan support, announced its prime sponsor, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre. Takac said H.B. 1980 would require physicians licensed in Pennsylvania to complete one hour of continuing medical education in nutrition during each two - year licensing period, with that hour included within the existing 100 - hour CME requirement. The modest, targeted change is designed to keep clinicians up to date with rapidly evolving evidence - based nutrition science while preserving the majority of CME time for specialty training. “Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of preventative medicine,” Takac said. “Conditions such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease are closely tied to diet, yet many physicians receive only limited nutrition education in medical school and may not pursue further training unless prompted. This is exacerbated by the flood of misleading and harmful nutrition advice online, with social media only amplifying the danger. “House Bill 1980 makes a small, practical change that helps doctors offer better, more holistic care to their patients.” Takac noted that improved nutrition education will strengthen clinical counseling, support preventive care and enhance Read more

 

A Balanced, Bipartisan Budget for Pennsylvania

(Nov 14, 2025)

Dear Neighbor, At long last, Pennsylvania has a balanced, responsible, and bipartisan budget. Getting here was certainly not easy, but my House Democratic colleagues and I, along with Governor Shapiro, stood firm. This budget makes historic investments in every public school student, supports working families, and preserves vital services—all without raising taxes or tapping the Rainy Day Fund. With costs already rising for so many, I’ve ensured this budget helps make life more affordable for you and your family. This is a responsible budget that helps working people and strengthens our communities. It lowers costs for families, combats hunger and healthcare cuts, and prepares us for whatever comes next from an unpredictable Washington, D.C. It ensures that our townships and boroughs can retain the dedicated public servants who plow our roads, maintain our parks, and respond to emergencies. The plan also increases school funding so teachers and students in districts like State College, Bald Eagle, Keystone Central, and Bellefonte have the resources they Read more

 

Takac: Historic boost for schools at center of budget that builds jobs, supports working people, and invests in our economy

(Nov 12, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Nov. 12 – Following bipartisan approval and enactment of the 2025-26 state budget, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, praised a balanced and responsible plan that advances priorities without raising taxes or tapping the Rainy Day Fund. The plan, totaling just over $50 billion, represents a compromise among the governor’s proposal, the House plan, and the Senate’s approach. It was crafted to ensure the Commonwealth can pay its bills, provide a historic boost to education funding, and invest in working families, job creation and economic growth. “This is responsible governance — fiscal discipline paired with compassion,” Takac said. “With $11 billion in reserves and no tax increase, this budget meets our current needs while protecting our future.” Takac highlighted how the budget addresses affordability and strengthens programs that matter to families across the district. He noted the plan increases Basic Education funding by more than $100 million, boosts Special Education by $40 million, and directs nearly $600 million to begin correcting long-standing adequacy gaps in school funding. The budget reforms charter payments to align with actual instructional costs, saving local taxpayers roughly $178 million statewide, and adds another $100 million for school safety and mental health services. It also strengthens early childhood education through investments in high quality, Read more

 

Public Service, Thanksgiving and MilitaryShare Food Drives, Pennie Open Enrollment, and an Intern Highlight!

(Nov 07, 2025)

Dear Neighbor, As we head into November, I’m again reminded that public service takes many forms. From the school board members, township supervisors, and judges we elected on Tuesday, to first responders, non-profit leaders, and community volunteers, our communities thrive because of those who step forward to serve and lead. Their commitment ensures that our local governments work, our schools remain strong, and our justice system upholds fairness, justice, and accountability. These roles often demand long hours and tough decisions, but they’re rooted in a shared belief in the value of community and the power of working together for the common good. As Abraham Lincoln so eloquently said, ours is a nation rooted in the belief government must be of the people, by the people, and for the people. That is the beating heart of our democracy, and I am so grateful for all those who voted and made their voices heard on Election Day. However, we must always remember that the liberty and Read more

 

SNAP and LIHEAP Delays, Community Food Resources, Thanksgiving Food Drive, and a Look Back at October

(Oct 31, 2025)

Dear Neighbor, I know there is a lot happening in our country right now, but I want to take a moment to highlight an issue of critical importance to many in our community. Starting tomorrow (November 1), the federal budget impasse will delay funding for both the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These unnecessary and cruel delays affect all of us—not just our neighbors in Centre County who rely on these programs to stay warm and put nutritious food on the table. The cost of groceries is projected to rise for everyone as retailers attempt to offset lost revenue from SNAP. And these delays come at the same time the Trump administration’s stricter standards for SNAP eligibility take effect, compounding the problem and adding further confusion and complexity for both participants and administrators. At the same time, federal Medicaid cuts and the expiration of tax credits for health insurance purchased through the Affordable Care Act are expected Read more

 

Check out my latest telephone town hall right here!

(Oct 17, 2025)

The state budget, school funding, SCI-Rockview, and much, much more -- listen to what our neighbors had to say. Read more

 

Tele-Town Hall TONIGHT, Support for WPSU and Local Media, Fall Fun in the District, and Upcoming Events

(Oct 16, 2025)

Dear Neighbor, I know that sometimes it can seem like the news is always bad and that our collective voices have minimal impact, especially lately. That is why I am so encouraged and grateful this week to see the incredible difference that an energized and engaged community has had in holding leaders and decision makers accountable. We are stronger together, and standing up for our core values and beliefs has never been more important. For over 249 years, the American people have never been beholden to kings or to authoritarian rule, and acts of peaceful, civil protest and free exercise of our constitutional rights remain the foundation of our democracy. And in less than a month, on Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 4th), we will once again exercise the most precious right of all - our right to vote. I hope you will join me in making sure that we stand up for our neighbors and for the rule of law by making your voice heard in the critical elections for local school board and municipal officials, as Read more

 

People, PAWS and PSU: A Health Clinic for Dogs, Cats and Their Humans

(Oct 15, 2025)

HOWARD, Oct. 15 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, is partnering with Centre County PAWS, the Penn State Lion Mobile Clinic, the Penn State School of Nursing and the Penn State Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences to host People, PAWS and PSU: A Health Clinic for Dogs, Cats and Their Humans from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Howard United Methodist Church, 144 W. Main St., Howard, Pa. 16841. This community event will offer affordable and accessible vaccine services for both people and pets. Centre County PAWS will provide low-cost vaccines and microchips for cats and dogs, including rabies, distemper and kennel cough protection. The Penn State Lion Mobile Clinic, Penn State School of Nursing and Penn State Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences will offer free flu vaccines for people and share information about ticks and tick-borne diseases. Takac’s office will also be on site to connect residents with state resources and services. There will be giveaways for people and their furry friends. As residents plan their visit, attendees should note that all cats must be brought in a carrier and all dogs must be on a fixed-length leash. People know their pet’s limits best, and the organizers ask that they respect the boundaries of other people and their pets, as well as the event start time, and practice patience as vaccines are coordinated for everyone. ### Read more

 

Takac reiterates commitment to transparency and community benefit in any decisions regarding the future of SCI Rockview

(Oct 01, 2025)

STATE COLLEGE, Oct. 1 -- State Rep. Paul Takac today issued the following statement regarding the future of SCI Rockview following the recent final decision to close the facility: “ SCI Rockview is in the heart of my district. And I’ve said it before, and I will keep saying it: the decision to close it was absolutely the wrong call. The decision by out-of-touch bureaucrats in Harrisburg ignored overwhelming evidence that Rockview is one of the top-performing institutions in the state and that it should remain open. Not only will this closure cause significant hardship in our community, it is a disservice to central Pennsylvania and to our commonwealth as a whole. “My primary focus now is doing everything I can to help and support the affected employees and their families, to ensure that no one loses their job, seniority or other benefits as a result of this misguided decision from the Department of Corrections. “I am also concerned for the inmates who have called SCI Rockview home, over 100 of whom wrote to my office pleading for this closure to be stopped. I will continue working to make sure that they’re treated fairly as they too are forced to relocate over the coming months. “In addition, I will be watching closely to make damn sure that the wind-down of operations is handled responsibly, without ever Read more

 

Takac bill unlocking $50 million for rural job creation clears PA House

(Sep 30, 2025)

HARRISBURG, Sept. 30 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, is celebrating a major win for rural businesses and workers with the passage of H.B. 1667 in the Pennsylvania House with overwhelming bipartisan support. The bill clears the way to unlock $50 million in private capital investment through the Rural Jobs Investment Tax Credit. Takac said H.B. 1667 clarifies and corrects language that prevented the Department of Community and Economic Development from launching round two of RJITC funding, which the General Assembly reauthorized in last year’s budget. “The Rural Jobs Investment Tax Credit is a proven, popular, and powerful example of a public-private partnership that rewards successful job creation by creating additional incentives to attract private investment in our rural businesses and communities. My bill helps free up $50 million dollars that is ready and waiting to help rural businesses expand and create jobs where they are needed most,” Takac said. “By removing barriers, this bill ensures that more PA businesses can access capital investments, keep people working, and strengthen our economy.” Takac emphasized that H.B. 1667 not only restores the Legislature’s intent but improves transparency and program delivery. “This is about making sure our communities receive the support they need by making it easier to access capital, keep people working, and strengthen local Read more

 

Veterans' Appreciation Luncheon in partnership with State College YMCA

(Sep 26, 2025)

Date: Friday, November 7 th from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Location: State College YMCA, 677 West Whitehall Road, State College, PA 16801 As a thank you to our veteran community, I’m proud to partner with the Centre County YMCA to provide an appreciation lunch for Veterans and Military Personnel. We’ll have lunch, giveaways, a guest speaker, and more! Read more

 

People, PAWS and PSU: A health clinic for dogs, cats, and their humans

(Sep 26, 2025)

Details: Sunday, October 19 th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm Location: Howard United Methodist Church, 144 Main Street, Howard, PA 16841 I’m proud to partner with Centre County PAWS and Penn State to bring affordable care to the district. A huge thank you to our partners at the Howard United Methodist Church for hosting us. PAWS will be providing a low-cost vaccine and microchip clinic, while Penn State will be providing free flu vaccines, and information about ticks and tick-borne diseases. Read more

 

Tele-Town hall

(Sep 26, 2025)

Join my tele-town hall to ask questions about community and state issues, and hear updates from Harrisburg and across the district! We'll send out a district wide phone call, and you can join in and ask questions. Details: Thursday, October 16 th from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Read more

 

Takac bitterly disappointed by announcement to close SCI Rockview, Quehanna Boot Camp

(Sep 17, 2025)

STATE COLLEGE, Sept. 17 -- State Rep. Paul Takac today issued the following statement on the announcement of the final report by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to recommend closure of SCI Rockview and the Quehanna Boot Camp: “ I am thoroughly disappointed, frustrated and angry. The negative impacts of this misguided and harmful decision to close SCI Rockview and Quehanna will hit immediately, and, for many, the ripples will continue to resonate for a lifetime. “ I, along with many others – on both sides of the aisle – lobbied and advocated for months to keep both facilities open. From the moment our community learned about the initial recommendations in February, I have done everything I could to try to prevent this from happening and to mitigate the harm that it would cause, including holding multiple public forums in our community, talking directly to our neighbors, holding dozens of meetings and conversations with Corrections and other agencies, as well as speaking directly with the administration, even as recently as late last week. “ Unfortunately, those arguments fell on deaf ears, and we are left with this misguided decision made by out-of-touch bureaucrats in Harrisburg who failed to meaningfully engage with the public beyond minimum requirements and who did not even care to visit the facilities before recommending their closure. “ Read more

 

Reflecting on Labor Day, Welcoming Back Students, WPSU Announcement, and Upcoming Events in the 82nd District

(Sep 17, 2025)

Dear Neighbor, The transition from summer to fall is always one of my favorite times of the year. The energy and excitement of back to school, the countless local festivals and celebrations, and the return of milder weather always seems to energize me. And as always, we have been very busy and hard at work – here’s a bit about what we’ve been up to lately! Paul PA State Budget Update Read more

 

Policy Committee tours Centre County business, Centroid

(Aug 12, 2025)

“Millions of people raised in rural communities know how unique and important these communities are in helping shape their lives,” said event host Rep. Paul Takac, who represents a large rural area of Centre County. “Some of our local communities are struggling, and we wanted to learn from the experience and knowledge Centroid has gained from over 45 years of building a successful, world-class business. By concentrating on creating more job opportunities in rural PA we can help Pennsylvania compete – and win – in the global economy. Our job is to harness the tremendous potential of small businesses like Centroid to help create and sustain good, high-paying jobs right here in Pennsylvania.” Read more

 

Shredding & Animal Supply Drive Event

(Aug 12, 2025)

Shredding & Animal Supply Drive Event Read more

 

License Plate Restoration Event

(Aug 12, 2025)

License Plate Restoration Event Read more

 

Takac helps secure $67.5K in clean energy grants

(Jul 15, 2025)

STATE COLLEGE, July 15 – In a major stride toward modernizing regional operations and advancing Pennsylvania’s clean energy objectives, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today announced the awarding of $67,524 in Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants to the Centre Region Council of Governments and Penn State University. The Centre Region Council of Governments received two grants totaling $43,850—$15,000 to purchase two electric passenger vehicles for Centre Region Code Administration site visits, and $28,850 to install electric-vehicle charging stations for municipal fleet use. Meanwhile, Penn State secured $23,674 to add four electric passenger vehicles and one electric passenger van to its Housing and Food Services fleet. “Despite many challenges, our region continues to take real steps toward a cleaner, more sustainable future,” Takac said. “By investing in electric vehicles and charging stations, the Centre Region Council of Governments and Penn State are leading by example—cutting emissions, saving taxpayer money, and building Pennsylvania’s leadership in alternative-fuel technology. This is an effort that I am proud to have helped support since serving on College Township Council and as chair of the COG Public Safety Committee, when we first began the effort to invest in electric vehicles to benefit both local taxpayers and the environment.” Established under Act 166 of Read more

 

Takac bill to level the playing field on campground taxes unanimously passes PA House

(Jul 08, 2025)

HARRISBURG, July 8 – Acknowledging the importance of keeping outdoor adventures affordable for Pennsylvania families and driving economic growth in rural areas, the Pennsylvania House today unanimously passed H.B. 1424 , announced its prime sponsor, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre. Takac said H.B. 1424 would exempt privately owned campgrounds from local amusement and admissions taxes, as bowling alleys and theaters already are. By removing those extra fees, campground owners can keep their rates low, helping families enjoy Pennsylvania’s outdoors without unexpected costs. “Some of my favorite childhood memories are of family camping trips, and it remains something that my wife and I love to do and have tried to pass on to our own kids,” Takac said. “House Bill 1424 seeks to help keep camping affordable here in Pennsylvania by clarifying the Tax Code to exempt privately owned campgrounds from local admissions and amusement taxes. “This levels the playing field for local small businesses in rural communities so they can keep their rates low and welcome more Pennsylvania families to the great outdoors. I’m very proud of the unanimous support in the House and look forward to seeing this commonsense fix become law.” Takac emphasized that H.B. 1424 is designed to set out clear, easy-to-follow tax rules while encouraging innovation and investment in new and evolving forms of Read more

 

Takac bill to equip doctors with better nutrition guidance wins House approval
1 day ago

A Balanced, Bipartisan Budget for Pennsylvania
Nov 14, 2025

Takac: Historic boost for schools at center of budget that builds jobs, supports working people, and invests in our economy
Nov 12, 2025

Public Service, Thanksgiving and MilitaryShare Food Drives, Pennie Open Enrollment, and an Intern Highlight!
Nov 07, 2025

SNAP and LIHEAP Delays, Community Food Resources, Thanksgiving Food Drive, and a Look Back at October
Oct 31, 2025

Check out my latest telephone town hall right here!
Oct 17, 2025

Tele-Town Hall TONIGHT, Support for WPSU and Local Media, Fall Fun in the District, and Upcoming Events
Oct 16, 2025

People, PAWS and PSU: A Health Clinic for Dogs, Cats and Their Humans
Oct 15, 2025

Takac reiterates commitment to transparency and community benefit in any decisions regarding the future of SCI Rockview
Oct 01, 2025

Takac bill unlocking $50 million for rural job creation clears PA House
Sep 30, 2025

Veterans' Appreciation Luncheon in partnership with State College YMCA
Sep 26, 2025

People, PAWS and PSU: A health clinic for dogs, cats, and their humans
Sep 26, 2025

Tele-Town hall
Sep 26, 2025

Takac bitterly disappointed by announcement to close SCI Rockview, Quehanna Boot Camp
Sep 17, 2025

Reflecting on Labor Day, Welcoming Back Students, WPSU Announcement, and Upcoming Events in the 82nd District
Sep 17, 2025

Policy Committee tours Centre County business, Centroid
Aug 12, 2025

Shredding & Animal Supply Drive Event
Aug 12, 2025

License Plate Restoration Event
Aug 12, 2025

Takac helps secure $67.5K in clean energy grants
Jul 15, 2025

Takac bill to level the playing field on campground taxes unanimously passes PA House
Jul 08, 2025