PA Representative Danielle Otten banner image

Dear Neighbor,

I hope everyone enjoyed a joyful and restorative holiday season, and I wish you all the very best in the year ahead. As we begin 2026, I also want to extend my congratulations to all our newly elected local officials as they step into their roles and begin this important work on behalf of our communities. Public service is a team effort, and I’m grateful for every partner, new and returning, who is committed to strengthening our region. I am looking forward to another year of community and collaboration here in central Chester County as we continue the work of serving our neighbors together.

After a two-week hiatus, there’s lots to share in this week’s newsletter. Read on for updates on community safety, lowering your electric bills, Route 30 Bypass repairs, the Pennsylvania Farm Show, grant awards in our district, and next week’s “Coffee with Constituents” with staff from my office and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan’s office.

Nonviolent Direct Action: Staying Safe While Demanding Accountability

This week’s killing of an American citizen by ICE in Minneapolis has left people across the country feeling heartbroken, angry, and deeply concerned. The loss of any civilian life at the hands of our own government demands our full attention and calls us to reflect on the responsibilities that come with public service. Those who take an oath to defend the Constitution, whether as elected officials, members of the armed services, law enforcement, or other public servants, must uphold that oath with integrity. That responsibility includes working to deescalate tense situations and protect the people we serve, not escalate encounters or put members of the public in harm’s way.

In moments like this, many Americans turn to their First Amendment rights to express their frustration, grief, and demand for accountability. Peaceful protest has always been a powerful tool for change in this country, and it remains an essential way for communities to make their voices heard. My own path to the legislature began as a community organizer, and I believe strongly that we all have a role to play in shaping a more just and accountable society. The time for sitting on the sidelines is over, and each of us can contribute in ways that reflect our values and our commitment to one another.

If you choose to protest, I encourage you to seek out training in nonviolent intervention so you can keep yourself and your community safe. Approaches like the Bill Moyer Movement Action Plan, Moyer’s Four Roles of Social Change, and the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s nonviolent direct action offer practical guidance for turning grief and anger into disciplined, constructive action. These models help people understand how movements grow, how to stay grounded in moments of tension, and how to protect one another while keeping the focus on justice and accountability. They also emphasize preparation, clarity of purpose, and the importance of acting in ways that reduce harm rather than increase it. If you are unable to protest, you can still support this work by getting trained yourself and helping others learn best practices. Every person has something meaningful to contribute, and every contribution strengthens the safety and effectiveness of our collective efforts.

I share in the fear, anger, and desire for accountability expressed by my constituents and the many Americans who are out in the streets demanding justice.

In addition to joining the public outcry, I am a cosponsor on several proposals that would ensure due process, protect residents of the commonwealth from unlawful detention or intimidation, and demand accountability from federal law enforcement agencies. These bills include the Officer Visibility Act introduced by my colleague Rep. Paul Friel, my colleague Rep. Chris Pielli’s proposal to ensure that state tax dollars cannot be used for federal immigration enforcement, and my colleague Rep. Heather Boyd’s proposal to prohibit Police Immigration Enforcement Agreements. I am proud to stand with my House colleagues in taking legislative action to do all we can at the state level to keep our communities safe.

Lower Your Electric Bills; Exercise Your Purchasing Power

With rising global tensions, including the recent events in Venezuela and their global repercussions, the energy market has become increasingly volatile. In a free-market society, consumers have real power to shape the marketplace through the choices we make. When we decide where our energy comes from, we are using our purchasing power to influence the direction of the entire sector. Many households do not realize that 100 percent renewable options are available at prices that are often significantly lower than your default utility plan.

If you are noticing higher electricity rates or simply want to explore your options, you can switch to a competing provider who might offer a lower price or services that better fit your preferences, including green or renewable energy. Taking a few minutes to review your choices can lower your monthly bill and support cleaner energy sources with less price volatility.

Through PA Power Switch, you can compare rates and plans, including plans that source energy from 100% renewable suppliers. PA Power Switch is Pennsylvania’s official electricity shopping website managed by the Public Utility Commission, so you can be assured that offers are verified and legitimate, and the website makes it easy to review and understand the terms and duration of each offer. In addition to unbiased comparison shopping, it provides tips to help you avoid misleading marketing tactics and scams, along with a helpful explainer about understanding your electric utility bill so you can better see which costs are within your control. (PECO will still be your electric utility; PA Power Switch just allows you to choose the company that supplies your electricity.)

Electricity prices fluctuate, so it is good financial practice to check back periodically to make sure you are signed up for the program and rate that best suits your household’s needs and budget. Consider setting a reminder on your calendar or phone to reevaluate plans in a few months, especially if the initial program you select has an introductory period. Taking a few minutes a few times a year to review your options can save money and ensure your energy plan fits both your values and your budget.

PennDOT Public Meetings on U.S. 30 Bypass Reconstruction Project

This week we have two important updates on the Route 30 Bypass in our area:

First, PennDOT has notified our office that a lane closure will be in place for repair operations on the westbound 30 Bypass between Route 340 (Bondsville Road) and Airport Road, from Monday, January 12, through Friday, January 16, from 8:00 PM each night to 5:00 AM the following morning.

And second, PennDOT has announced a series of upcoming public meetings about the long‑term reconstruction plans for the U.S. 30 Bypass in Chester County. This project covers a 14.5‑mile stretch between Coatesville and Downingtown and is designed to improve safety, reduce congestion, support planned growth, and strengthen overall connectivity throughout the region.

The project team will present the selected alternatives for the U.S. 30 mainline and several key interchanges, including Reeceville Road, Route 340, and U.S. 322, along with revised alternatives for the Norwood Road and Route 113 interchanges. Community members will have multiple opportunities to learn more, ask questions, and provide feedback.

Public Meeting Opportunities

Virtual Public Meeting

Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM

Format: Microsoft Teams Town Hall

A recording will be posted afterward on the project website for anyone unable to attend live.

In‑Person Open House Plans Display

Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Time: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Location: Pope John Paul II Regional Catholic Elementary School, 2875 Manor Road, Coatesville

Attendees will be able to speak directly with project team members and submit written comments.

No pre-registration is required. All project materials, including maps, alternatives, and background information, are available at www.us30‑chesco.com. Community members can submit electronic comments through the website from January 15 through February 6, 2026. Those who cannot attend the meetings or access the website may share feedback by contacting PennDOT Project Manager Steven Fellin at sfellin@pa.gov or 610‑205‑6821.

For more information, click here.

Coffee with Constituents: Meet Staff from the Office of U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan

Next week, my district office staff will host the staff of U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan for their first Coffee with Constituents event of 2026. Stop by on Thursday, January 15, between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to connect with staff members from Rep. Houlahan’s office and learn more about the services they can provide.

Staff from Rep. Houlahan’s office and mine will be on hand to assist with needs at the federal and state levels. Whether you are navigating a state service, seeking help with a federal program, or simply looking for guidance on where to start, our teams will be here to support you.

We hope you will stop by, say hello, and take advantage of this opportunity to engage with both offices, get help with state or federal services, and share what issues matter most to you as we begin the new year.

Experience the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show

The Pennsylvania Farm Show returns to Harrisburg from January 10 through January 17, taking place at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center, one of the largest indoor agricultural event spaces in the country. This year’s theme, “Growing a Nation,” is part of Pennsylvania’s broader recognition of America250, the nationwide commemoration of our country’s 250th anniversary. The theme highlights how agriculture has shaped our history and sustained our communities, and how it continues to play a central role in the story of our Commonwealth and our nation.

Visitors can explore hundreds of exhibits, watch livestock competitions, meet producers from across the state, and enjoy the Farm Show’s signature foods. The event also features educational displays, cooking demonstrations, and hands‑on activities that showcase the diversity of Pennsylvania agriculture and the many career paths it supports.

If you plan to attend, the Farm Show website provides a full schedule of events, visitor guide, maps, and parking information to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you go for the learning opportunities, the exhibits, or the famous milkshakes, the Farm Show is a great way to support Pennsylvania’s farming community and take part in this year’s America250 celebrations.

Learn more about the 2026 PA Farm Show here.

New Grants Awarded

The Shapiro Administration recently announced nearly $30 million in municipal traffic safety grants through Pennsylvania’s Green Light‑Go Program, which supports communities in upgrading traffic signals and improving roadway safety. I am pleased to share that Upper Uwchlan Township was among the municipalities selected for funding in our region.

The township will receive $920,306 to upgrade detection and controller equipment at the intersection of Route 100 and Graphite Mine Road, a busy corridor that serves residents, commuters, and local businesses. These improvements will help modernize signal operations, reduce congestion, and support safer travel throughout the community.

Investments like this strengthen the infrastructure that our region relies on every day, and I will continue advocating for resources that improve safety and quality of life across our district.