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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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How State Budget Decisions Shape Our Communities
Behind every dollar in the state budget is a decision that shapes our communities and future. These choices go far beyond numbers on a page. They affect how well our roads are maintained, how safe our neighborhoods feel and how our schools and small businesses grow.
As your state representative, a big part of my job is helping shape those budget decisions. That means taking a close look at where resources are needed most and making sure your tax dollars are being used wisely. It also means listening to our community and focusing on what will make the biggest difference over time.
This work is about results you can see. Investments in infrastructure, public safety and education turn into improvements right here at home. They create opportunities and help our communities move forward.
I want to give you a closer look at how this process works and what it means for you. Watch the video below to see how these decisions make a difference in our community.
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Ending Pennsylvania’s Inheritance Tax to Protect Families
Pennsylvania is one of the last states that still collects an inheritance tax, and it can place an added burden on families during an already difficult time. Many people believe it is unfair to tax money that has already been taxed once.
I am working to eliminate the inheritance tax, also known as the “death tax,” so families can keep more of what their loved ones worked hard to build and leave behind.
This effort is about fairness and about easing the financial strain on families when they are grieving. Watch the video to learn more about why this change matters and what it means for Pennsylvania families.
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Expanding Access to Care Through Stronger Pharmacy Services
I’m proud to see continued progress in expanding access to health care across Pennsylvania, thanks in part to my legislation, Act 77 of 2024. Act 77 updated Pennsylvania law to allow pharmacists to delegate the administration of vaccines and injectable medications to properly trained pharmacy technicians and interns under appropriate supervision. It also modernized patient age limits and supervision requirements to reflect today’s health care needs.
Recent regulatory updates put that law into practice, making it easier for patients to receive timely care at their local pharmacies. This is happening because we recognized a growing need to improve access to routine and preventive care, especially as demand for services continues to rise and workforce shortages impact the health care system.
By cutting unnecessary red tape, we can better use highly trained pharmacy staff while maintaining strong patient safety standards. These changes also help Pennsylvania remain competitive with neighboring states that have already adopted similar policies. Most importantly, it means patients can get the care they need more quickly and conveniently, close to home.
I will continue working to support practical solutions that strengthen our health care workforce and improve access for communities across the Commonwealth.
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Exploring the History of Brodhead Road
As we continue sharing the story of our area in the lead up to America’s 250th birthday, I thought it would be interesting to take a closer look at something we all use but rarely stop to think about. Brodhead Road in Moon Township.
This road is named after Daniel Brodhead, and it has a story that goes back to the early days of our region. Why was this road built? How long is it? Who did the work to build it? What materials did they use and where did the money come from?
I had the chance to sit down with Brady Crytzer, author, historian and professor at Robert Morris University, to talk through these questions. The answers really bring the history of this road to life and show how much effort has gone into something we now take for granted.
Please take the time to watch this very interesting discussion.
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Voter Registration Deadline May 4
Time is running out! Pennsylvanians who are not already registered to vote but wish to participate in the May 19 primary election should be sure to register no later than Monday, May 4.
To be eligible to vote in the primary, you must be a citizen of the United States for at least one month before the election; a resident of the election district in which you register to vote for at least 30 days before the election; and at least 18 years of age on or before the date of the primary.
Under state law, only voters registered as Republicans or Democrats may vote for candidates in the primary election.
Citizens may register to vote online here or visit your county voter registration office. Not sure of your registration status? Check it here.
Voters who prefer to vote by mail-in or absentee ballot have until May 12 to apply for the ballot and until 8 p.m. on May 19 to return it. For more information, click here.
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Pittsburgh Showcased on the National Stage During NFL Draft
I was proud to join community leaders at Pittsburgh International Airport for the ribbon cutting of the NFL Draft Welcome Center. It was an exciting way to kick off what became a historic time for our communities.
As someone who grew up near the airport and now represents this area, it meant a great deal to see how far we have come. The new terminal gave visitors an outstanding first impression of who we are, reflecting innovation, culture and welcoming spirit from the moment they arrived.
With the NFL Draft bringing national and global attention, it was an opportunity to showcase what we can achieve. It highlighted years of work to position us as a destination for major events and new opportunities.
We were proud to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world.
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Celebrating Healthy Kids
It was my pleasure to host the National Healthy Kids Day event along with Sen. Devlin Robinson at the Sewickley Valley YMCA. The gymnasium was filled with families, children and community members coming together to celebrate healthy habits and active lifestyles.
The energy throughout the day reflected a shared commitment to wellness and the importance of keeping kids engaged in positive, active routines. It was encouraging to see so many residents come out in support of programs that promote healthier living across all ages.
During the event, I had the opportunity to speak with residents who care about health and wellness in our community. Conversations throughout the day highlighted how strongly local families value access to fitness, recreation and youth programming.
I also had the chance to see Paula Kwalick, head coach of the Sewickley Sea Dragons. Her swimming team recently advanced to the Division II championship. The girls finished in first place, and the boys took second, a strong showing and a well-earned achievement for the program.
Thank you to everyone who supported our Healthy Kids Day initiative.
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Supporting Families, Strengthening Care
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak at a luncheon hosted by the Family Association of Merakey Allegheny Valley School at Rockefeller’s Grille in Kennedy Township. It was a meaningful chance to connect with families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who rely on the services provided by Merakey.
We had a nice discussion about the challenges facing the IDD community. One issue that stood out was the urgent need to strengthen and sustain the Direct Support Professional workforce. These professionals play a critical role in providing daily care and support, and ensuring a strong workforce is essential to maintaining quality services.
Merakey Allegheny Valley School serves more than 600 adults across nine counties in Pennsylvania. The families who attended shared how much their loved ones rely on these supports each day and why they matter so much.
I will continue to advocate for policies that improve care and strengthen support systems for individuals and families across Pennsylvania.
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Sweetwater Opens Doors
Sweetwater Center for the Arts recently hosted an Open House to celebrate an exciting new milestone for the organization. The event marked Sweetwater’s new ownership of its building and gave the community a chance to see everything it offers for families, children and artists of all ages.
Visitors spent the day exploring the space and trying out creative activities. I had a wonderful time taking part in felting and watching a jewelry metalworking demonstration. It was nice to see the skill and detail that goes into the work and even more fun to try something hands on.
The Open House also highlighted Sweetwater’s role as a vibrant community arts center and its commitment to making art accessible and welcoming. Families and guests moved through the building enjoying the many opportunities available.
A key part of the celebration was recognizing the Allegheny Regional Asset District for its long standing support of Sweetwater and many other cultural organizations in the region. That support continues to help strengthen arts programming and keep creative spaces thriving in our community.
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Circle Your Calendar! Join Me!
Our Senior Resource Session will be on Thursday, May 7, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Department, 190 Ambridge Ave., Ambridge. Staff will be available to help senior citizens with Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications, Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) ConnectCards and Unclaimed Property. We will also be happy to answer questions about other state-related services.
The Day Care Policy discussion will take place on Thursday, Sept. 17, starting at 4:30 p.m., at the Sewickley Valley YMCA, 625 Blackburn Road, Sewickley. Participate in a discussion about the policies, procedures and safety practices of daycare programs. Due to time constraints, live testimony will be limited. You may submit written testimony for the record by emailing ccramer@pahousegop.com.
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