Dear Neighbors,

A lot is happening at the federal level that can be concerning and disruptive to our daily lives. From attacks on healthcare to policies that undermine our rights and freedoms, it can feel overwhelming at times. But here in Pennsylvania, we’re working hard to protect the things that matter most to you.

In case you missed it, my editorial about what we are doing in Harrisburg to protect your health care from the chaos from Washington was published earlier this week, and you can read by clicking on the graphic below.

Protecting Government Workers

As a nurse, I understand firsthand the importance of having strong safety regulations to protect workers. Over 50 years ago, President Nixon established the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), saving lives, preventing injuries, and boosting worker productivity across the country. Since then, our economy has only grown, and corporate profits are higher than ever.

But there’s a gap we can’t ignore. While OSHA protections have benefited private sector workers, public workers—like our teachers, bus drivers, police officers, firefighters, and nurses—have never had the same level of protection.

That’s why I voted for House Bill 308, a critical piece of legislation that ensures our 600,000 public servants are protected in their workplaces with strong clear standards. This bill requires the state Department of Labor and Industry to develop effective safety regulations, set standards for inspections, and support workers who raise concerns about their safety.

This bill ensures public employers provide basic protections, report workplace injuries and fatalities, and inform employees about hazardous materials they may encounter on the job.

Image: A photo of me celebrating with my colleagues during a press conference for HB 308

Giving Retired Teachers & State Employees a COLA!

Our teachers dedicate their lives to giving our kids a better future. Our state public workers dedicate their lives to making sure our government is working for us. When these Pennsylvanians retire, they’ve earned the right to take their work shoes oﬀ and relax. My dad used to work for the city, and I know how hard he worked. But rising costs have forced many of them back into the workforce – that’s why I voted this week our Philadelphia retirees their first raise since 2002.

Image: With teachers, students at Lankenau and State Senator Vincent Hughes at Lankenau.

The Public Worker Cost of Living Adjustment Act (COLA) would increase long overdue retirement payments depending on how long a worker has been retired. It helps retirees, helps those on the job right now know they’ll be taken care of, and helps our communities recruit the next generation of public workers. Like the workplace safety bill, the COLA bill now goes to the PA Senate for consideration!

Ending Period Poverty

Girls and women should have access to period products in restrooms in government buildings, just as people have access to soap, paper towels and toilet paper.

This bill, introduced by Rep. Roni Green me and Rep. Parker, will ensure access for menstrual hygiene products for free in all state government buildings.

Call your legislator & ask them to vote yes on HB 337!

Click on the image above to watch a brief video about ending period poverty

Speaking out Against Pulling Student Visas

Three international students at the University of Pennsylvania recently had their visas revoked by the Trump Administration—part of a larger effort that saw over 300 student visas pulled. This came after Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the government could revoke student visas for protesting or speaking out about issues like the war in Gaza. In recent months, several students have been detained by plainclothes ICE agents and even attempted to be deported for simply exercising their First Amendment rights, including at least one student who was targeted simply for writing an Op-Ed for a newspaper.

In our nation, people have the right to express thoughts and opinions, even when they don’t align with those of our elected leaders. That’s a fundamental part of what makes us free.

That’s why my colleagues and I in the PA House Democratic majority are focused on protecting these rights. In Pennsylvania, we believe in defending freedoms — not taking them away.

Last session I worked with Rep Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) on a bill that protected the right to speech from garbage lawsuits like SLAPP suits, meant to intimidate people expressing free speech. Governor Shapiro signed our bill into law last summer.

Image: A photo of me and Governor Shapiro during a bill signing

This session, I’m introducing legislation to protect students in public schools from ICE. Schools like Penn should be places of safety and learning, not where families are torn apart.

I spoke with the Daily Pennsylvanian about the recent actions of the Trump administration — read my comments here.

Concerns About Washington?

If you have concerns about the policies and actions coming out of Washington, our office has put together a flyer with key contact information:

Flyer with information about federal government contacts

Trout Season Is Here!

Opening Day of Trout Season kicked off Saturday, April 5—and anglers across the region are already reeling in big catches! Throughout the 2025 season, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will stock more than 3.2 million adult trout across 691 streams and 130 lakes, including trophy-sized and golden rainbow trout.

Yes, you can fish in the Schuylkill and Wissahickon but kids & adults 16 and older need a license. You can get your license at HuntFishPA or from participating license agents. And if you’re fishing from a small boat or kayak, life jackets are still required through April 30.

Image: Me and Rep Mary Jo Daley restocking the Wissahickon together last year

Mutt Madness Recap

Thanks to everyone who came out and helped organize Mutt Madness I at Roxborough Pocket Park! With help from ACCT Philly and the Roxborough Development Corporation, the park was full of tail wags, pet treats, and plenty of smiles.

During the event, several attendees connected with ACCT Philly about dogs they were interested in and got information to follow up. We also helped multiple residents license their dogs—an important step to keep pets safe and protected.

Image: Me with “Lebron — The Three Pointer,” one of the foster dogs that attended Mutt Madness. Photo Courtesy of Nick Taylor

Summer Jobs for Teens

North Light is an approved site for issuing work permits to teens aged 14–17!

Also, our office helped to secure a $90,000 federal grant that will allow over 50 kids to get summer internships through North Light!!

For more details, visit North Light Community Center's Teen Services.

Image: Flyer with information about North Light’s CIT program

A Career in Law Enforcement

We are now in the recruiting window for the Philadelphia Police force!

Image: With 6ABC’s Sharrie Williams📺 and 5th District Police Captain James Kimrey at Gorgas Park last year

For those who qualify, there is a sign on bonus, paid-leave, tuition reimbursement, and salary after the fourth year on the force is over $90,000! Apply at joinphillypd.com

Please take a screenshot and share!

Image: Flyer from the Philly PD on recruitment

A Local Leader on Our Side — PA Secretary of State Al Schmidt

Roxborough’s own Secretary Al Schmidt’s path to becoming Pennsylvania’s Secretary of State has been shaped by his deep commitment to public service. Before stepping into this role, Al served as a Philadelphia City Commissioner, where he became known for his fair and balanced approach, especially in protecting the integrity of elections. In 2020, he stood worked to ensure that every vote counted and that our elections remained transparent and secure.

Image: Meeting Secretary Schmidt at Kendrick Rec during the general election in 2020

I had the opportunity to speak with Secretary Schmidt during the appropriations committee meetings this spring, where he helped clarify some of the misinformation around our elections and explained the steps Pennsylvania takes to keep them safe, secure, and fair.

To me, what sets Secretary Schmidt apart is his ability to navigate the political landscape with a nonpartisan focus on doing what’s right, regardless of outside pressure. His work continues to ensure that Pennsylvanians can trust our election system.

Secretary Schmidt’s leadership in election security has been vital for our state, and I’m glad to work alongside him as we continue to strengthen Pennsylvania’s democratic processes.

See Secretary Al Schmidt and I talk about election security in PA by clicking the photo above

Thank you Secretary Schmidt!!