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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Protecting Pennsylvania’s Drinking Water from PFAS
Clean, safe drinking water should never be in question for Pennsylvania families. Recently, I hosted a discussion with water and environmental experts about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” and the steps we can take to protect our communities.
PFAS have been used for decades in products ranging from firefighting foams to food packaging. Because some of these chemicals can persist in the environment for long periods, contamination can pose ongoing challenges for drinking water systems.
Our discussion covered drinking water regulations, monitoring requirements, available treatment technologies and local efforts to protect water quality. We also explored the importance of reducing unnecessary exposure to families and firefighters, holding responsible parties accountable when contamination occurs and ensuring communities have the resources to address these challenges.
PFAS contamination is a challenge we cannot afford to ignore. Communities need reliable information, effective treatment options and continued monitoring to identify and address potential problems. When contamination occurs, those responsible should be held accountable rather than leaving taxpayers to bear the burden. Our firefighters also deserve the information and resources they need to understand potential exposures and stay safe while serving others.
My priorities are to address PFAS and other chemical concerns, strengthen drinking water protections, promote science-based solutions and ensure we have the information and resources needed. We must pursue responsible policies grounded in credible science that protect public health without imposing unnecessary burdens on Pennsylvania families, farmers and businesses.
Every Pennsylvanian deserves their concerns to be taken seriously. Protecting this vital resource requires continued attention and accountability.
Check out the video for a summary of our discussion.
Click here to watch the full event.
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Election Day This Tuesday!
This Tuesday, Nov. 3, is Election Day! Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Click here to verify your polling place for in-person voting.
Voters who have chosen to vote by mail-in or civilian absentee ballot must have those ballots back to their county Board of Elections no later than 8 p.m. on election day.
If you choose to deliver it in person, you can only return your own ballot, not anyone else’s. And no one can deliver your ballot on your behalf unless you are a voter with a disability and have designated someone, in writing, to deliver your ballot, or if you need an emergency absentee ballot. Click here for more frequently asked questions about elections from the Department of State.
More information about voting is available at www.vote.pa.gov.
Please note: My office in Moon Township will be closed on Tuesday due to election day. We will resume our regular office hours on Wednesday, Nov. 4.
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Protecting Kids from Internet Predators, AI
I recently voted in favor of two new state laws aimed at keeping our children safe in the age of internet predators and artificial intelligence.
Act 71 of 2026, formerly House Bill 1098 – also known as Alicia’s Law – creates a dedicated state grant program to fund law enforcement task forces focused on investigating and prosecuting internet predators who target children. The law is named after Alicia Kozak, a Pittsburgh-area woman who was abducted in 2002 at age 13 by a man she met online. Thanks to her advocacy, Pennsylvania became the 14th state to enact this law.
Act 87 of 2026, formerly House Bill 2474, requires mandated reporters of child abuse to immediately notify law enforcement when they become aware of suspected child sexual abuse material involving artificial intelligence-generated deepfake images. The legislation is intended to prevent reporting delays that can allow sexually explicit material involving children to continue circulating and additional victims to be targeted.
Act 71 takes effect immediately, while Act 87 will take effect in late January.
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New Law Bans Cell Phone Use in School
Legislation I co-sponsored that would require schools across the Commonwealth to ban the use of cell phones during the school day was signed into law by the governor earlier this week.
Act 117 of 2026, formerly Senate Bill 1014, 2026 specifically requires all Pennsylvania public, charter, cyber charter, and private schools to adopt policies prohibiting students from using personal cell phones throughout the school day, including during lunch, recess and between classes.
There are some exemptions, including students who require a mobile device due to a medical condition of the student or an immediate family member; students who have individual education plans that require them to use their phones; English-language learners who use their phones for translation services; and students who receive permission from the teacher when certain criteria are met.
The law requires school entities to inform parents, guardians, teachers and students about the policy at the beginning of each school year. The policy would have to include information about how parents or guardians can sign up for emergency notifications and how they can contact their child during the school day.
Schools are required to adopt and implement a policy by the start of the 2027-28 school year.
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Back for a Visit to Apple Blossom Senior Living
It was nice to be back at Apple Blossom Senior Living in Moon Township this week. I first visited in September and was glad to have the opportunity to return and catch up with everyone.
We had some good discussions about issues affecting our seniors, community priorities, and how my office can help residents navigate state government and find the resources they need.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to talk with me and share their thoughts. I always enjoy these visits and appreciate the chance to listen, answer questions and stay connected.
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A Look Back at Shousetown Boatyard
Pennsylvania’s history is full of places that played an important role in shaping our area. One such place is Shousetown Boatyard in Crescent Township, near Glenwillard.
Founded by Peter Shouse, the boatyard became an important center for steamboat building, launching an impressive 102 boats during its years of operation. Its work reflects the area’s connection to the Ohio River and the important role river transportation played in the region’s growth and development.
Nearby, Stoops Ferry helped carry passengers and goods across the Ohio River, connecting communities before bridges transformed the way people traveled.
Watch the video and learn more about this outstanding piece of our history.
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Fire Safety Day in North Fayette Township
Fire Safety Day at the North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department was a great opportunity to meet the dedicated men and women of Station 209, learn about fire safety and get an up-close look at the equipment they use to protect our community. Families also had the chance to explore fire trucks and emergency vehicles during the popular “Touch a Truck” activity and learn more about the important work our first responders do every day.
I want to thank Fire Chief Ian Richards, Assistant Chief Brandon Wharton, Deputy Chief Alex Toth, and Lieutenant Tyler Pilewski for taking me up in the bucket – 100 feet into the air. What a view of North Fayette Township.
That experience gave me an even greater appreciation for the work these firefighters do. Seeing the community from that height was quite a thrill but knowing our firefighters reach those heights while wearing their full protective equipment and fighting dangerous flames makes me admire their dedication even more.
Since 1970, the North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department has served as an all-hazards fire department, responding to a wide range of emergencies and helping keep us safe.
Be sure to check out the video to see my trip 100 feet up in the air.
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Protecting Animals and Advancing Humane Treatment
Recently, I was pleased to receive a very nice letter from Humane World for Animals thanking me for my support of the Beagle Bill, Senate Bill 381, which has been signed into law as Act 92 of 2026.
I was proud to vote in favor of this important legislation, which strengthens protections for beagles and other animals used in scientific research. The passage of the Beagle Bill represents progress for animal welfare in Pennsylvania.
I am grateful to Humane World for Animals and everyone who worked tirelessly to advance this legislation. Standing up for animals and protecting them from harm is a responsibility we must take seriously.
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A Spooktacular Time in Findlay and North Fayette!
Halloween fun is in full swing across our communities! Last week, I shared a look at Moon Township’s Halloween Spooktacular, and this week, I enjoyed more fall festivities at Findlay Township’s Halloween event and North Fayette Township’s Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat.
A big thank-you to Findlay Township, Findlay Township Parks and Recreation, the Findlay Township Police Department, Imperial Volunteer Fire Department, and all the volunteers and families who helped make Trunk or Treat at Clinton Community Park such a memorable celebration. Your time and effort helped create a fun, festive atmosphere for children and families to enjoy.
I also had a wonderful time at North Fayette Township’s Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat at the North Fayette Township Community Center. With several hundred little ghouls and goblins dressed in their Halloween best, the celebration was full of spooky costumes, smiles and Halloween spirit. Thank you to North Fayette Township Parks and Recreation, the events team and all the sponsors who helped make it happen!
I passed out candy to all the kids! Check it out.
Wishing everyone a safe, happy and spooktacular Halloween!
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October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which is a time to celebrate our friends with Down syndrome and make others aware of their many abilities and accomplishments.
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition diagnosed in the United States and is associated with delays in physical growth, characteristic facial features and intellectual challenges. Approximately 5,700 babies are born with Down syndrome in the United States each year. However, due to improved research and medical treatments, children born with Down syndrome can live long, happy and productive lives.
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Don’t Forget to ‘Fall Back’ Saturday Night
Daylight saving time will end at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1. Be sure to turn your clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night.
It’s also a good time to check or change the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. In addition to regular battery changes, experts say the alarm devices should be replaced every 10 years to better ensure your safety.
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