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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Pennsylvania Ready to Celebrate America's 250th Birthday
As Americans prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding on Saturday, July 4, I was honored to join several of my colleagues in producing a special video highlighting Pennsylvania's extraordinary role in our country's history.
As a commissioner on the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA), I have seen firsthand the tremendous amount of planning and hard work that has gone into preparing for this historic celebration. Countless people have worked behind the scenes to ensure this milestone is commemorated in a meaningful way.
Pennsylvania has always been at the heart of America's story, from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the generations of men and women who have helped shape our nation.
I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to watch the video and join me in celebrating Pennsylvania's proud legacy as we honor 250 years of the United States of America.
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Concert Series a Tremendous Success
The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) Commonwealth Concert Series brought together tens of thousands of people across five sold-out stops to celebrate our nation's upcoming 250th anniversary, and I was honored to attend the Pittsburgh concert at Point State Park in Pittsburgh.
The concert featured performances by Nelly, Third Eye Blind and Pittsburgh's own Frzy, creating an unforgettable evening celebrating Pennsylvania and America's rich history.
It was great to spend time with my fellow commissioners, sponsors and so many friends.
A special thank you to Executive Director Cassandra Coleman and the entire America250PA team for their dedication and hard work in making the Commonwealth Concert Series such a tremendous success.
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Celebrating America's 250th with the American Kennel Club
As a commissioner for America250PA, I was honored to serve as an honorary chair for the American Kennel Club’s AKC Celebrates USA 250 event in Philadelphia.
The event was a celebration of our nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, bringing attention to the role that dogs, families and community engagement play in strengthening American life. It also highlighted AKC dog sports and educational programming that promote responsible dog ownership and the positive impact of training and care.
I have always been a supporter that encourage responsible pet ownership and community involvement, and I appreciate the American Kennel Club’s continued leadership in these areas.
That message is reflected in my own home with my dog, Annie. I was very proud when Annie earned her AKC Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) title after training with professional dog trainer Dan Grachen of Moon Township.
I invite you to watch the video below of Annie and me during one of our training sessions.
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Office Closures for Independence Day
As we prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday, please note my legislative offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the holiday.
Additionally, PennDOT driver license and photo centers will be closed on Saturday, July 4. Anyone planning to do business at PennDOT’s Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg or the Pittsburgh Driver License Center should be aware they are closed on Friday, July 3.
PennDOT customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT's Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.pa.gov.
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Another Missed Budget Deadline! Time for Reform!
The deadline for adopting Pennsylvania's state budget has passed, and once again, it will be late. How late? We don't know.
The budget deadline was June 30, yet year after year lawmakers fail to complete the budget on time. The House passed the governor's proposed budget last month along party lines, and it is now before the Senate for consideration.
When budgets are delayed, it isn't politicians who feel the impact first. It's our schools, human service providers, local communities and the countless Pennsylvanians who depend on critical state funding.
Late budgets create uncertainty, disrupt planning and delay resources that people need and deserve.
The question is: How many more years will Pennsylvanians be forced to endure this dysfunction?
That's one reason I introduced House Bill 1010, legislation that would reduce the size of the General Assembly and help make the legislative process more efficient, accountable and effective.
Watch the video below to hear my remarks on this important issue.
I have also co-sponsored legislation that would help hold state government accountable for completing the budget on time, including:
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House Bill 2483, which would require the General Assembly to remain in session every weekday after June 30 until a state budget is passed. |
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House Bill 2484, which would require the governor to call a special session if a general appropriations bill is not enacted by the June 30 deadline, subject to voter approval of a constitutional amendment. |
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House Bill 1906, which would suspend automatic pay raises and cost of living adjustments for legislators, the governor and the lieutenant governor in any year the state budget is not enacted by July 1. |
The status quo isn't working. It's time to have a serious conversation about reform.
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Building Pennsylvania’s Leadership in the AI Economy
As chair of the Pennsylvania House Artificial Intelligence (AI) Opportunity Task Force and ranking member of the House Communications and Technology Committee, I was honored to take part in a panel discussion hosted by Hogan Lovells in Washington, D.C., focused on building the future of the AI economy.
The discussion brought together lawmakers, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators to explore how we can advance innovation while strengthening economic and national security and maintaining strong consumer protections.
A key focus was the rapid growth in demand for data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, and modern energy infrastructure. Pennsylvania is well positioned to lead in this space. We have world-class universities, the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, abundant energy resources, a strong manufacturing base, robotics expertise, and a highly skilled workforce ready to compete.
At the same time, growth must be responsible. As we expand the AI economy, we must ensure companies protect consumers, safeguard natural resources, maintain grid reliability, strengthen cybersecurity, and pay their fair share for the infrastructure they rely on, without shifting costs onto Pennsylvania families and businesses.
Pennsylvania has a real opportunity to lead in AI, and we should pursue it in a way that drives innovation, supports jobs and protects taxpayers.
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Delivering Relief and Responsible Growth
Last week, the Pennsylvania House took important bipartisan action to address rising costs and promote responsible economic development. It's important to be proactive – not just by casting votes in Harrisburg, but by being present in our communities; listening to residents, local officials, and business owners; and bringing those concerns directly to the Capitol. Being in the room, asking questions, and advocating for the people I represent is how we achieve meaningful results.
I supported the legislation considered during these votes because it reflects a focus on affordability, transparency, and accountability.
One of the most significant measures was House Bill 2224, which passed the House unanimously. I supported this legislation, which would eliminate the nearly 6% Gross Receipts Tax on electric bills, providing an estimated $1.7 billion in relief to Pennsylvania consumers, including families, seniors, and small businesses. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
We also considered several bills addressing the rapid growth of data centers across Pennsylvania to ensure development is transparent, responsible, and beneficial to local communities.
I supported House Bill 2496, which would establish a 180-day pause on new data center applications, giving municipalities time to review projects, assess impacts, and update local zoning and infrastructure plans.
I also supported House Bill 2650, which focuses on transparency, environmental safeguards, community engagement, and protections against rising utility costs for projects receiving tax incentives.
In addition, I supported House Bill 2198, which would repeal a special tax exemption for data centers that has already cost Pennsylvania taxpayers tens of millions of dollars while increasing demands on the electric grid and water resources.
These votes reflect my continued commitment to balancing economic development with accountability, protecting taxpayers, lowering costs where possible, and ensuring Pennsylvania communities have a voice in major infrastructure decisions.
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Encouraging the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
This week, the House Communications and Technology Committee held an informational meeting on how modern communications systems, data integration and sensor technologies improve our ability to identify and analyze anomalous signals and objects.
During the hearing, I had the opportunity to ask Jason Wright, professor of astronomy and astrophysics at Pennsylvania State University, how we can inspire more young people to pursue careers in science, technology and space exploration.
His response reminded me that the future of innovation depends on encouraging students to dream big. It also brought back memories of growing up and attending school with Michael Fincke, whose dedication and determination led him to become a National Aeronautics and Space Administration astronaut.
Encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is essential to maintaining Pennsylvania's and America's leadership in innovation, research and discovery. Please watch the video.
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Supreme Court Upholds Laws Protecting Fairness in Women’s Sports
Great news for our girl athletes! The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 this week that states can limit participation in women’s sports to biological females only. The decision specifically upheld laws from Idaho and West Virginia, determining that biological sex-based restrictions do not violate the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause or Title IX.
The ruling reaffirms it is time for House majority Democrats to stop playing games and run a bill that would ensure fairness in women’s sports in Pennsylvania once and for all. House Bills 158 and 1849, along with Senate Bill 9, have been shuffled from committee to committee over the last year as Democrat leaders have worked to avoid a vote on the issue. This week, the bills were moved from the House Judiciary Committee to the House Health Committee.
Polls indicate 80% of people, regardless of political party, support women’s sports being for biological women only. Athletic competitions give women the opportunity to demonstrate their strength and skill, while also providing opportunities for recognition ranging from accolades to college scholarships. We owe it to our female athletes to ensure these rights and opportunities are protected.
Join us in support of this effort by signing the “I Believe” promise at defendingdaughters.com.
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Impact Fee Revenue Supports Local Priorities
I am happy to share nearly $251,000 in Marcellus Shale impact fee revenue will be headed to municipalities across the 44th Legislative District, along with more than $2.04 million for Allegheny County. The funding gives local governments added flexibility to address infrastructure needs, public services and other community priorities.
Pennsylvania’s energy industry continues to provide meaningful benefits to our communities. These impact fee dollars help local governments address important needs such as road maintenance, public infrastructure, environmental stewardship and public safety services. The funds also help to ease the burden on local taxpayers.
To read more about impact fee disbursements to our communities, click here.
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Strong Turnout at Free Dental Clinic Highlights Need for Care Access
Our recent free dental clinic event drew a strong turnout, emphasizing the ongoing need for accessible and affordable healthcare services in the community. The event was coordinated in partnership with UPMC for You and Miracle Dental Associates, bringing preventative dental care directly to those who may otherwise face barriers to treatment.
Throughout the day, residents received a range of services, including cleanings, exams, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and assistance with arranging follow-up care when needed. The clinic also helped connect individuals to additional resources to ensure continuity of care beyond the event itself.
The high level of participation reflected a clear and consistent message: access to basic healthcare services remains a priority for many families, and bringing those services closer to home can make a meaningful difference in overall health outcomes.
Here is a video capturing the sights and sounds of the day.
Check out my legislation, House Bill 1417, that would restore dental coverage for Medical Assistance recipients. It passed the House and is awaiting consideration in the Senate.
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More District Events Coming Your Way! Make Plans to Attend!
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Fish for Free on Independence Day!
This Saturday, July 4, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will host a Fish for Free day to allow anyone (resident or non-resident) to legally fish on all Pennsylvania waterways. No license is required, but all other fishing regulations apply. This is a great way to expose the next generation of anglers to the outdoors! More information about fishing in Pennsylvania is available here.
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