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FOLLOW ME: |
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Dear Neighbor,
This week, Governor Josh Shapiro addressed a joint session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly to present his proposed yearlong budget for the Commonwealth. While the final budget is due by June 30, each year the process begins with the Governor’s proposal, followed by several weeks of appropriations hearings.
I’m pleased to share that the governor’s proposal is once again aimed at the real issues that Pennsylvanians are faced with – affordability being at the top of the list.
A strong budget is more than just a financial plan reflects the values a government holds for its people. In this spirit, Pennsylvania’s commitment to providing high-quality and equitable education continues to be a clear priority.
This year, I’m focused on advancing attainable housing, accessible healthcare, and the affordability of everyday essentials—from food to energy. These issues touch every family in our community, and we must address them if we want Pennsylvania to thrive.
We cannot lose momentum in the fight for a higher minimum wage. I was encouraged to hear Gov. Shapiro call for an increase in his address, but it’s frustrating that this conversation happens year after year. This must be the year the Senate finally acts, securing a raise for millions of workers across the Commonwealth. We need solutions that benefit both businesses and workers so that we can all rise together.
On that note, I’m pleased that this budget includes no tax increases, advances permitting reform, and invests in new businesses across Pennsylvania. Combined with my Tradable Net Operating Loss bill (read on for details), the climate for commerce in the Commonwealth has never been stronger.
Another issue brought up in the budget address was data centers. This is a topic of great local importance, as we have had no fewer than three projects proposed in district.
As AI data centers multiply, states are being forced to make policy choices. We must provide guardrails to protect our communities from environmental impacts, infrastructure strain, consumer utility costs, and other negative impacts on quality of life. I'm currently helping to shape legislation that provides tools for local municipalities who need help developing data center zoning ordinances and an a co-sponsor on other legislation to specifically hold data centers accountable and provide protections to consumers and communities.
In the coming months, I’ll participate in budget hearings in Harrisburg to examine the details of each proposal. These hearings are a crucial opportunity to ensure the final budget reflects the needs and priorities of our district.
Sincerely, |
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ICE activity is provocative
The recent ICE activity in southeast Pennsylvania, including in our district, is filling many people with apprehension. I share your concern about the disruption to our neighbors and families and the threat to civil liberties. It is deeply disconcerting to see the behavior of these masked, unidentified federal agents and to hear about the negative effects this has on local community and economic realities.
We’re a country of peace and a country that values rule of law. I believe we need comprehensive immigration reform- including secure borders and a path to citizenship. I want dangerous criminals off the street and brought to justice, whether they are undocumented immigrants, citizens, or anyone in between. I also am steadfast in my conviction that immigration and any other type of enforcement should always be done with order, as well as a high regard for human dignity and community welfare.
I have sponsored and introduced several bills aimed about protecting our communities and values:
Documenting Ice Civil Liberties Violations: H.B. 2171 Protecting Pennsylvanians’ Rights Against Unlawful Searches and Seizures: H.B. 1968.
I got to speak with ABC27 in Harrisburg about our legislation. You can watch the segment here. |
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Below is a snapshot of additional bills that the Pa. House might consider given the standing of ICE and its operations. |
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Remember, each time we face a crisis, we get to define what it means to be a Pennsylvanian. Let’s be the people who show up for one another and strengthen our communities. Let’s live in a way that would make William Penn proud. Let’s cherish our home and work together to make it safer, more inclusive, and far from a battleground. |
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Courage in the storm
I want to thank Chester County’s emergency responders and workers across the region, as well as PennDOT crews and staff, all regional and state law enforcement, utility workers, garbage collectors, meteorologists, and countless others for their heroic efforts during last month’s powerful storm. |
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Thank you for coming to my Elverson Town Hall
Thank you to everyone who attended my Elverson Town Hall. Your questions, ideas, and thoughtful discussion made the conversation both meaningful and productive. Civic engagement like this strengthens our community and ensures that local voices are heard. |
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Net Operating Loss Reform Bill passes House
I also wanted to share that my bipartisan Net Operating Loss reform passed to the Senate 198-1 last week!
This change would make Pennsylvania a more attractive home for start-up tech companies. It would allow qualified start-ups to sell net operating losses to other businesses—a strategy modeled on a successful New Jersey law. By turning losses into usable cash, this approach helps Pennsylvania companies grow and become job creators.
House Bill 1129 transforms today’s hard-fought challenges into tomorrow’s growth, helping ensure that the next generation of jobs, investment and innovation remains right here in the Commonwealth. |
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PA House Fellowship Program is accepting applications
The PA House Fellowship Program is accepting applications from eligible Pennsylvania college students for the Summer 2026 semester. Fellows work in committees or leadership offices at the state Capitol.
The program provides compensation and may also offer college credit. Eligible applicants include college juniors, seniors, graduate students, or law students with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Applications are due by March 2.
Visit here to learn more. |
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Pennsylvania State Capitol Harrisburg, PA 17120 |
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District Office 68 Glocker Way Pottstown, PA 19465 |
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