A time to speak out; honoring our heroes; smart scouts; fireworks safety – and more!

Rep. Arvind Venkat May 22, 2025 | 6:49 PM

Honoring Those Who Gave Everything

As Memorial Day approaches, we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our peace and freedom.

The state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is reminding Pennsylvanians that a good way to honor our fallen heroes is by giving to the Pennsylvania Veterans’ Memorial Trust Fund. The memorial – located at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Lebanon County – is nationally recognized as the largest veterans’ memorial located in any of the national cemeteries. You can read more here.

Please be aware that our office will be closed on Friday, May 23 and Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. We will reopen for regular business hours on Tuesday, May 27.

Speak Out at My May 29 Town Hall

Now more than ever, it’s important for citizens to speak out – and for elected officials to listen. My office will be hosting a town hall on Thursday, May 29, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at La Roche University’s Zappala Campus Center, 9000 Babcock Blvd. (Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.) I urge everyone to stop by and share what’s on your mind. Please visit this page or scan the QR code above to RSVP if you plan to attend.

Around the District

I had a wonderful time meeting with Avonworth Girl Scouts last weekend to discuss how our government works and my role as our state legislator. The scouts asked great questions and offered thoughtful ideas for improving our community and state.

Last Sunday marked the start of EMS Week, and I was delighted to attend an open house hosted by the McCandless-Franklin Park Ambulance Authority. As an emergency physician, I have seen firsthand the lifesaving impact EMS professionals have every day. As a legislator, I’ll keep advocating for these frontline heroes to make sure we prioritize funding for the resources they need.

PUC Tips to Manage Summer Energy Bills

With summer approaching and new default electric generation prices taking effect on June 1, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission is urging residents and businesses to take steps – including energy conservation and shopping for lower rates – to help manage utility bills. Visit this page to learn more.

In related news, PUC has scheduled public hearings to address proposed rate hikes by Columbia Gas. There will be two telephone public hearings at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4. Those interested in participating must register by 10 a.m. on June 4.

There will also be two in-person hearings at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, at the Washington County Crossroads Center, Meeting Room G-16, 95 West Beau St., Washington. Visit this page for more information.

Free Admission to Select Pittsburgh Attractions

The Allegheny Regional Asset District is bringing back its Summer Staycation program, which allows free admission to select Pittsburgh attractions through August 31. Please click here to learn more, including the participating institutions, and book your RAD Pass today!

Fireworks Safety Tips

In 2023, there were eight fireworks-related deaths and 9,700 fireworks-related injuries resulting in emergency room visits, with children younger than 15 accounting for nearly one-third of fireworks injuries. If fireworks are a part of your holiday festivities, please remember these important safety tips from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner:

Avoid alcohol and drugs: Never use fireworks after consuming alcohol, illegal drugs, or medications that can impair judgment.
Supervise children: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Sparklers, which burn at 2,000°F, are the second leading cause of fireworks-related ER visits.
Prepare for emergencies: Keep a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby when setting off fireworks.
Use protective gear: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Handle fireworks properly: Never hold fireworks in your hand or place any part of your body over them.
Maintain a safe distance: Never light fireworks inside, near people, or near buildings.
Dispose of fireworks safely: Soak spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding them.
Keep pets safe: Keep pets indoors, close curtains or blinds, and provide background noise to reduce stress.?
Stay legal: Never use illegal fireworks.

You can read more – including information about PA fireworks laws – at this page.

With backyard barbecues also a holiday tradition, it’s also important to practice safe grilling. Check out the tips below.

Finding Funding and Help With State Services

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.