Para los lectores hispanohablantes, pueden leer la versión completa de este correo electrónico en español AQUÍ

Two of my bills were approved by the House!

I’m proud to share that two of my bills passed the House last week! These pieces of legislation work to expand solar energy to warehouses and distribution centers (HB 1260) and boost flood insurance awareness to homeowners (HB 1718).

The rise of e-commerce has brought plenty of jobs to communities across Pennsylvania. These large buildings provide us with the opportunity to leverage prime space and address a challenge that many Pennsylvanians have been facing: rising energy costs.

My bill would require that all new warehouses and distribution centers be constructed solar-ready and provide a tax credit for existing warehouses and distribution centers to make any retrofits necessary to be solar ready.

 

These buildings offer ample real estate to advance solar energy, increase Pennsylvania’s share of electricity generated by renewable sources, create high-paying jobs, and lower utility bills for consumers.

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. We’ve seen homes, businesses, and schools devastated by it in the district and across Pennsylvania.

 

While some homeowners are required to have flood insurance because of their home’s location, many properties outside of these designated zones are still at a significant risk, and the homeowners are unaware that affordable flood insurance is available to them.

House Bill 1718 would require insurance companies offering or issuing homeowner’s insurance policies to notify homeowners of the availability and pricing of flood insurance. Additionally, it would require annual notice be given to individuals with homeowner’s insurance.

 

This legislation addresses the existing knowledge gap by empowering homeowners to make careful, informed decisions about protecting their property and well-being.

 

Both bills now move to the Senate for consideration.

 

More grant funding coming to the district!

I’m proud to share that over $100,000 was recently approved for the 126th! The funding comes through the Local Share Account Program from the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

 

The projects receiving money are as follows:

  • $85,000 to Muhlenberg Township Fire and Rescue for a new utility truck.
  • $28,300 to the Central Berks Police Station for renovations and security upgrades.

Thank you to the CFA for their support of our local first responders!

 

Learning about Pennsylvania’s black bear population

Earlier this month, I joined some of my colleagues from the House Game and Fisheries Committee, game wardens, and PA Game Commission representatives for a discussion on managing PA’s black bear population and a firsthand look at cub tagging.

 

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is staffed with highly skilled wardens, scientists, and other dedicated people who work diligently to support and maintain wildlife and game lands. It was a pleasure to be out with these amazing folks!

 

Celebrating a milestone

I recently was able to celebrate a House milestone with my colleagues. There is currently a historic high of 65 female members in the House of Representatives!

 

In 1922, the first eight women were elected in the House, and now, 104 years later, we’re at the highest to date- what an incredible achievement!

 

Latest edition from the Berks County Planning Commission is out!

The Berks County Planning Commission’s latest E-Flash is now available! This edition focuses on various training and engagement opportunities to learn more about water infrastructure maintenance, LTAP training courses for public safety, and much more.

 

Head here to read the full copy!

 

Upcoming events

Shred Event on April 4

Shredding documents doesn't just declutter, it also protects you from identity theft! Join me on Saturday, April 4 at Muhlenberg High School for a free shredding event, where personal documents will be safely destroyed on-site. 

 

I hope to see you there! 

 

Date: Saturday, April 4

 

Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

 

Place: Muhlenberg High School, 400 Sharp Ave., Reading, 1960

 

My Senior Fair is May 7!

Save the date for my upcoming Senior Fair! 

 

Seniors in the 126th are invited to attend and explore the wide range of valuable resources offered by state, local, and federal government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations.

 

Date: Thursday, May 7

 

Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Speakers will begin at 10:30 a.m.)

 

Place: Muhlenberg Township Building, 210 George St., Reading, 19605

 

I’ll be on hand with my staff to assist with any state government questions you may have. We hope to see you there! 

 

My office is here to help!

My team and I are ready to help you with a range of services. Please stop by my office (4933 Kutztown Road), call us at (610) 921-8921 or email RepRusnock@pahouse.net to learn more about the services we offer and get started!

 

District Office

4933 Kutztown Rd.
Temple, PA 19560

(610) 921-8921

Pennsylvania State Capitol
152 Main Capitol Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 783-3290

Unsubscribe from future updates