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The Latest News from Your State Representative
Please do not reply to this e-mail, as I am unable to respond to messages sent to this address. You can contact me directly at vgaydos@pahousegop.com or here.
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Energy Generation for Allegheny County: Celebrating Mainspring Energy's $87 Million Grant


As I reflect on the areas of growth occurring in our region, I am particularly pleased to see a number of initiatives with hundreds of new jobs opening up in the tech sector and in Findlay Township. I have expressed my support for Mainspring Energy's recent award of an $87 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. This funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grants Program, is a game changer for our community.

This grant will pave the way for the establishment of a state-of-the-art linear generator manufacturing facility right here in Allegheny County. This initiative is expected to create over 600 skilled jobs in clean power generation.

The significance of this facility cannot be overstated. Linear generators represent an innovative category of power generation, designed to meet the needs of various sectors, including utilities, data centers, and commercial industries. This kind of technology is essential as we strive to lead the way in clean energy power generation, making a positive impact on both our economy and our environment.

I want to take a moment to thank the Allegheny Conference and the Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce for their invaluable support in fostering this initiative. Collaboration and community effort have been pivotal in bringing this vision to life.

The nearly 300,000-square-foot facility, set to be constructed near the Pittsburgh International Airport in Findlay Township, will produce up to 1,000 linear generators annually, enough to power approximately 250,000 homes. This significant investment, exceeding $175 million, is not only about creating jobs; it’s about revitalizing our local economy and harnessing the skilled workforce that our region boasts.

Having advocated for this initiative and recognizing its importance in supporting businesses in our area, I am excited to see the efforts of our business community finally come to fruition. As we anticipate the groundbreaking of this facility in 2025, I am hopeful for positive effects it will bring to our community.
 
 
Protecting Pets, Survivors


Recently, I joined my fellow lawmakers and advocates at the state Capitol to discuss a crucial piece of legislation aimed at protecting pets in domestic violence situations. House Bill 1210 would amend Pennsylvania’s Protection from Abuse Act to explicitly allow judges to prevent abusers from harming or possessing their victims' pets. This change is vital, as we know many victims delay leaving abusive situations out of fear for their animals' safety.

Data from the Humane Society highlights the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse, with 71% of domestic violence victims reporting their abuser also targeted pets. By acknowledging the role of pets in these traumatic situations, we can provide comprehensive support for victims.

House Bill 1210 is a step forward in ensuring both individuals and their beloved companions are protected. The bill passed the House in July 2023 and recently passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. It is awaiting a vote by the full Senate.

As someone who has volunteered with animal welfare organizations for more than a decade and adopted three rescue dogs, I understand the deep bond between people and their pets. This bond often complicates the decision to leave an abusive situation. I currently serve on the advisory committee of “Standing Firm,” which seeks to stop workplace violence, further emphasizing my commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals. When we empower judges to include pets in protective orders, we are not just safeguarding animals; we are enabling survivors to seek the help they need without fear.

It’s time for Pennsylvania to join most states that already recognize the need for these protections.

I stood with my colleagues at a press conference to advocate for House Bill 1210. Click here to watch it.
 
 
Securing Educational Funding



Recently, my office has received inquiries regarding education funding in our area, and I'm pleased to share some positive news. Once again, I have successfully secured significant increases in state funding for our school districts. This enhanced funding is crucial as it directly supports our schools in providing quality education and essential resources for our students. I remain dedicated to ensuring our educational institutions receive the financial support they need to thrive, preparing our children for a bright future.
 
 
Community Improvement Grants Announced

 

Nearly $1.9 million in state funding is coming to our local communities in the 44th Legislative District! This funding, awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), is derived from gaming revenues and will support a range of vital projects, from infrastructure upgrades to public safety enhancements.

These grants are crucial for improving the quality of life for our residents. They allow municipalities to tackle long-overdue projects that ensure our communities remain vibrant and resilient. Local grants awarded include:

• Bell Acres Borough: $16,150 for a municipal complex survey to evaluate potential sites for a new building and renovation options.
• Crescent Township: $233,333 for repairs to the Main Street bridge, enhancing both vehicular and pedestrian safety.
• Edgeworth Borough: Various grants totaling $217,244 for projects including a hydro-vac trailer purchase, reservoir wall repairs and pump station refurbishments.
• Leet Township: $155,000 for necessary sanitary sewer repairs to prevent basement flooding.
• Moon Township: $1.17 million for projects including extending a waterline for the volunteer fire company and acquiring land for a new pedestrian pathway.
• Sewickley Borough: $75,000 to install an elevator in the Sewickley Valley Cultural Center, making it more accessible.

These investments will make a meaningful difference in our community. I’m fully committed to supporting the growth and development of our region!
 
 
A Call for Justice



Recent months have seen a troubling rise in crime in our suburban neighborhoods, prompting urgent concerns about public safety. Residents who once felt secure now face the unsettling reality that violence is creeping into our communities, demanding immediate action.

While we all look to the police to stop these crimes, the judicial system also plays a key role. When a potentially violent criminal is released without bail or supervision, the entire community is placed at risk. A recent example is Magisterial District Judge Xander Orenstein and his decision to release Anthony Quesen on no-cash bail, despite Quesen's criminal history. Tragically, Quesen was recently charged with murder. The judge’s decision reflects a trend of allowing dangerous individuals back into our neighborhoods without appropriate consequences.

Judge Orenstein’s rulings have drawn significant criticism, underscoring the need for an investigation into his approach to bail.

This call for accountability extends beyond one judge or case; it is about restoring faith in our judicial system and ensuring the safety of our communities. As we confront these challenges, we also mourn the loss of Officer Benjamin Brallier, who was tragically killed in an act of violence allegedly committed by Quesen. His death highlights the dangers of judicial leniency.

As a result, I have reached out to Melissa Norton, chief counsel of the Judicial Conduct Board, urging a thorough investigation into Judge Orenstein’s handling of dangerous offenders.

Please take a moment to read my letter and join me in advocating for justice and accountability.
 
 
Election Day This Tuesday

 
This Tuesday, Nov. 5, 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.
 
 
Building a Safer Future

 

This week, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Imperial Volunteer Fire Department and Sen. Devlin Robinson to discuss the evolving needs of our community's first responders. As our neighborhoods grow, so do the challenges faced by those who protect us. It was inspiring to witness the commitment from the fire department to ensure our firefighters are equipped with the resources necessary to keep us safe.  
 
 
Insights from Penn State Health’s Sports Medicine Briefing


At the Capitol, I had a great time attending a breakfast briefing featuring clinicians from Penn State Health’s sports medicine team. As a former student athletic trainer at Dickinson College and a Division III lacrosse player, I understand firsthand the importance of injury prevention and education for our student athletes.

The briefing highlighted how parents, coaches and athletic trainers play critical roles in identifying and assessing sports-related injuries. With approximately 320,000 adolescents participating in high school sports across Pennsylvania, it’s vital that we equip ourselves with the knowledge to support these young athletes.

The panel of medical doctors discussed key topics such as exertional heat illness, concussions and the importance of exercise as medicine. We were also inspired by Mickey Shuler Jr., a three-sport high school athlete and former tight end for the Penn State Nittany Lions, who shared his insights on maintaining peak physical performance.

It's extremely important to promote the health and well-being of our student athletes this fall sports season!
 
 
Juvenile Justice Reforms Become Law


Two new laws adopted by the General Assembly aim to help ensure the juvenile justice system is working as it should to protect public safety and hold offenders accountable, while also aiming to steer young offenders away from committing future crimes.  

Act 107 of 2024 requires more frequent review hearings of juvenile offenders who are in detention centers to determine whether their progress is consistent with the placement plan. The hearings will now occur every three months, rather than every nine months.

Act 108 of 2024 addresses how juveniles can seek expungement of their criminal record. Previously, a juvenile was only eligible for expungement for most misdemeanor crimes after waiting five years. Now, the wait time will be two years. It is still a five-year wait for those convicted of felonies, misdemeanor firearms crimes and indecent assault.

Both laws are based on recommendations made by Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Justice Task Force.
 
 
Don’t Forget to ‘Fall Back’ Saturday Night


Daylight saving time will end at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3. 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.

 
Let's Get Connected


Our District

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RepGaydos.com
Office Locations
District Office:
1005 Beaver Grade Road, Suite 106, Moon Township, PA 15108 | Phone: (412) 262-3780, Fax: (412) 262-3783
Capitol Office:
Room 428, Irvis Office Building, House Box 202044, Harrisburg PA 17120-2044 | Phone: (717) 787-6651 |
Email: vgaydos@pahousegop.com