Dear Neighbor,
Budget season in Harrisburg is officially underway, as Gov. Josh Shapiro delivered his budget address to the General Assembly on Tuesday. During this annual event, the governor outlines what he would like to see included in this fiscal year’s budget. This serves as the General Assembly’s blueprint as we begin negotiations.
Following Gov. Shapiro’s address, the Appropriations Committee begins three weeks of intense budget hearings. During these hearings, committee members meet with every state department to hear presentations regarding issues they’re facing and the funding they need to resolve them. I’ll post any budget-related updates on my legislative social media platforms as this process unfolds, but the majority of the most important work doesn’t occur until June – closer to the legislature’s deadline.
Click here to read some highlights from Gov. Shapiro’s address.
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Federal government concerns
I have received many calls and emails with concerns about what is happening in our federal government. Unfortunately, I am limited in my ability to respond directly to these actions as a state Representative. While I will continue to work for our community and the people of Pennsylvania, I encourage you to reach out to your federal representatives to share your concerns or comments about any actions happening in Washington, D.C. Their information is below:
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Fly Eagles, fly!
Delco, it’s time! This Sunday, the Eagles take the field for the SUPER BOWL, and we’re ready to cheer them on all the way! Let’s bring the energy, the passion and that unstoppable Philly spirit. GO BIRDS! ????
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My bill clears committee, heads to the House
The House Transportation Committee voted my bill, HB 410, out of committee this week. This bill would allow individuals with certain disabilities to request PennDOT issue a driver’s license or identification card using the most recent color photo and signature of the applicant on file in accordance with federal guidelines. Providing this flexibility would ensure that Pennsylvanians with severe and persistent medical conditions always have a valid form of ID, allowing them to navigate daily life without unnecessary barriers.
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Tax season is here
The tax season is officially here, and our office is here to be a resource. My office has the most common state tax forms available. If you need tax assistance, AARP provides tax assistance for individuals over 50 who have low to moderate income. You can call 1-888-227-7669 to schedule an appointment or visit: Free Tax Preparation From AARP Foundation Tax-Aide.
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications are also now available. You can apply online at mypath.pa.gov or by paper application. If you need assistance with filling one out, my office is hosting a PTRR Clinic with Senator Tim Kearney on February 20th from 10 am to 1 pm at Morton Borough Hall. You can sign up by calling the office at 610-544-9878.
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The Family Care Act would provide for Pennsylvania families
Growing up, I learned the hard way that our government doesn’t do enough to support working families. That is why I am proud to support the bipartisan Family Care Act. Providing paid leave to Pennsylvanians supports PA families, workers and businesses. It’s a win-win and we must get it done this session.
Click below to hear me share my story on how legislation like this would have benefited my family while I was raising my little brother at 18 years old.
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Let’s talk gun violence prevention
?? Honored to be recognized by CeaseFirePA as a Gun Safety Champion! ??
I’m proud to be part of the movement toward safer communities by advancing gun laws and securing funding for violence prevention. It’s been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated advocates to make a real impact.
CeaseFirePA is hosting a special event to celebrate this work, and I’d love for you to join us!
When: Thursday, February 13th
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Where: Off the Rail - Media, 109 W. State St., Media, PA 19063
There will be light refreshments and the chance to connect with others who are committed to making our communities safer.
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Shapiro administration invites LGBTQ youth to virtual listening session
????? Pennsylvania LGBTQ+ youth have an opportunity to share their voices with the governor’s office ?????
The Governor’s Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs is hosting virtual LGBTQ Youth Listening Sessions on Tuesday, March 11th, and Wednesday, March 19th, from 4 pm – 5:30 pm via Zoom to discuss expanding protections for LGBTQ youth. Middle and high school students across PA are invited to participate.
Register here to receive the Zoom link.
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Black Business Forum on February 22nd
Senator Kearny and Representative Gina Curry are hosting their annual Black & Diverse Business Forum at Delaware County Community College on Saturday, February 22nd.
Local minority entrepreneurs and small business owners are invited to come out to this event and learn the basics of entrepreneurship, how to get certified, and different ways to access capital. We will discuss social media marketing/branding.
Date: Saturday, February 22
Time: 9 am – noon
Venue: Delaware County Community College (Academic Building) | 901 Media Line Road | Media, PA 19063
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Look for money in your mailbox with Pennsylvania Money Match!
Keep an eye on your mailbox to see if you’ll be receiving some unclaimed property from the state. PA Money Match is a new law that lets the state automatically return unclaimed property valued at $500 or less and belongs to a single owner. People with eligible properties will receive a letter in the mail to confirm their address; then, about 45 days later, they’ll receive a check for their property.
My office will help you claim your property for FREE, give us a call or feel free to stop in and see how we can help.
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Financial aid webinars presented by PHEAA
In recognition of Financial Aid Awareness Month, PHEAA invites prospective college students to a series of free, informative webinars. This month, they'll cover the topics "Improving Your Credit - Get Your Loan" and "Advance Planning for Financing Higher Education."
As a first-generation college student, I know how intimidating the financial aid process can be, so take advantage of this free professional help! These webinars are a great opportunity to get expert advice and make informed decisions about your future.
Click here to register and learn more. The first webinar this month will be on February 11th.
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Award for worker safety programs
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Governor’s Award for Safety Excellence, an annual award that recognizes employers with exceptional safety strategies and injury prevention programs that protect Pennsylvania workers. Employers across the Commonwealth are encouraged to submit applications by Thursday, May 1st.
Pennsylvania employers may nominate themselves or may be nominated by a third party. More information is available here.
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March Blood Drive with Senator Kearney
Thank you to everyone who came out to my office’s blood drive in January. 26 units of blood were collected during this drive, which can go on to help up to 78 patients in need.
Our next Blood Drive is March 31st in partnership with Senator Kearney and Red Cross at the Swarthmore PAC Center. You can sign up by going to https://www.redcrossblood.org/ and enter: Senator Kearney.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
217 Irvis Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-4090
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District Office
26 E. 4th St.
Media, PA 19063
(610) 544-9878
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