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Dear Neighbor,
We are now 10 days past the state budget deadline, and House and Senate Democrats remain committed to advancing a budget that funds our schools, supports seniors and working families, strengthens public safety, and helps our communities.
While rank-and-file members have not yet seen any final language, both the Senate and House are being called back into session this weekend, with the Senate Appropriations Committee scheduled to meet tonight and House Appropriations to meet tomorrow night. I am hopeful that this is a sign of progress, and I will continue to share any updates as they become available.
Three-Day PECO Strike Ends with Agreement Between Union and Utility
Last week, with PECO workers preparing to go on strike for the first time in their 145-year history, I joined my colleagues in the House Southeast Delegation in urging PECO management to come to the bargaining table in good faith and work toward a fair and just agreement.
While an agreement was not reached in time to avert a walkout, I was grateful to see the strike ended after just three days, as a tentative contract agreement was reached. The 1,600 members of IBEW Local 614 were fighting not only for fair wages and benefits, but for basic dignity and respect. I am pleased to know that the terms of the agreement have been broadly celebrated and supported by the affected workers. Striking workers returned to the job on Wednesday.
Tragic Loss at Marsh Creek State Park
My team and I send our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Sean O’Connor, the paddleboarder who lost his life at Marsh Creek State Park over the July 4 weekend. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic loss.
We are deeply grateful to the law enforcement officers, DCNR park rangers, and first responders from across Chester County—many of them volunteers—who assisted with the search and recovery efforts. Giving up your holiday to answer a call for help says everything about the character of the first responder community. We know this was a difficult night and a heartbreaking outcome for everyone involved, and we thank you for your service and your compassion.
As we move through the summer months, many of us will be spending more time on the water, and summer storms can move in fast with little warning. As you head out to enjoy the water this season, please check the forecast, keep an eye on changing conditions, and always, always wear a life vest. Small precautions can make all the difference.
While we don't yet know all the details of last weekend's tragic incident, we want to ensure that everyone has the information they need to stay as safe as possible on the water. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission provides resources and safety tips for going out on a paddleboard or other watercraft. You can find their recommendations and reminders here.
Safely Enjoy Pennsylvania’s Waterways
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission recently shared a great video with key tips to keep in mind before you head out onto Pennsylvania’s waterways. Whether you are boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding, safety always comes first.
Visit fishandboat.com for more helpful guidance and resources before your next adventure. |
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Please contact my district office at repotten@pahouse.net if you have questions or would like to share your thoughts on any legislative or state-related issue. |
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Celebrate Summer and the Semiquincentennial in Chester County
This summer provides an opportunity for our community to take part in America’s Semiquincentennial, a milestone that will bring international attention to our region. With major events like the MLB All-Star Game and the FIFA World Cup coming to Pennsylvania, visitors from around the world will get a glimpse of what makes Southeastern Pennsylvania such a remarkable place to live. Beyond the excitement of these events, our corner of the state stands out for its mix of history, natural beauty, and vibrant local communities. If you are looking for some ideas close to home, the Brandywine Valley website is a great place to start.
We are fortunate to live in an area where the story of our nation is still visible in the landscape around us. The fields and roads near the Battle of the Brandywine, the trails at Valley Forge, and the historic sites just outside Philadelphia remind us how much of America’s early history unfolded right here. The Semiquincentennial offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with that legacy and explore the places that helped shape our country. You can find events and resources through America250PA and America250Chesco.
There is so much to see and experience across our region, and summer is the perfect time to get out and enjoy it. |
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Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Period Extended
The 2026 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Period has been extended through December 31, 2026. The Department of Revenue began sending rebates on July 1, so submit your application now to get your rebate as soon as possible!
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians ages 65 and older, widows and widowers ages 50 and older, and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
Please call or stop by my office to find out if you’re eligible and get assistance applying for your rebate. We’d be glad to answer any questions and set up an appointment to help you complete your application online!
For those who prefer to file by mail, paper applications are available in my office. |
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SEPTA Senior Key Cards and Card Renewals
If you have a SEPTA Senior Key Card that has expired or will expire within the next month, we can renew it in our district office. To renew your card before it expires, please stop by my district office, or call us to make an appointment.
My office can also process applications and take photos for new SEPTA Senior Key ID Cards, which allow seniors 65 and older to travel for free on all SEPTA Regional Rail and transit routes within Pennsylvania. Just stop by my district office and bring a form of ID with your date of birth on it, such as a PA driver’s license or non-driver ID, U.S. passport, or birth certificate. We’ll enter your information into SEPTA’s online system, take a quick photo, and then SEPTA will mail your new card to you directly. |
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2-1-1 Southeastern Pennsylvania: Health and Human Services
211 SEPA is part of the national 211 Call Centers initiative that seeks to provide health and human services for everyday needs and those in crisis situations.
2-1-1 works with county governments and provider agencies to ensure important local program information is easily accessible.
Visit 211sepa.org for more information. |
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Mental Health Resources: Call 9-8-8
Chester County residents experiencing mental-health-related crisis or distress can dial 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This system is designed to be a memorable and quick number that connects people in crisis to a trained mental health professional.
Chester County offers additional resources for those in crisis, including Chester County’s warm line, 1-866-846-2722, operated by Certified Peer Specialists, who are individuals in recovery with a lived experience of mental health challenges.
Chester County’s Teen Talk Line ensures seamless referral to Mobile Crisis for youth in need of immediate or higher-level support. The call line is 855-852-TEEN (8336), and the text line is 484-362-9515.
Visit the Department of Human Services website for more information about the 988 system and other state and local mental health resources.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, please don’t give up hope, and please know that you do not need to walk this path alone. We are here and we will do whatever we can to help. |
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My staff and I are here to help make state government work better for you! For assistance with the above programs or any other state-related services, please email repotten@pahouse.net, call 484-200-8259, contact us through my website, or visit my district office in Exton and let us know how we can help! |
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District Office 631 North Pottstown Pike |
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Pennsylvania State Capitol 34 East Wing PO Box 202155 (717) 783-5009 |
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