As we near the end of June, a.k.a. Budget Month, I’m looking at more time in Harrisburg, as we’re on standby hoping to soon have an agreed-to budget to vote on.
Before I launch into all that has been happening here, I want to take a moment to thank everyone for all the kindness you have shown in the past few weeks since I lost my father. So many have reached out with cards, emails, texts, and personal visits. I was so grateful to see so many at his funeral service last week. It is heartwarming to know so many would take the time out of their busy schedules to offer their condolences. My mom, sister Lori and her family, my brother Frank, my husband Mark and boys Ryan and Justin are so grateful for the love and care.
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The past few weeks in Harrisburg have been busy, and this week is no exception! We passed several pieces of important legislation to regulate data centers, including repealing the sales tax credit. We also passed legislation seeking accountability and transparency on the $680 million in EITC (that’s Educational Income Tax Credit in this case) program funding our parochial and private schools receive. Read on below for details about these important pieces of legislation.
My colleagues on both sides of the aisle also voted unanimously this week to pass the bill I designed with expert input to incentivize biotech and pharmaceutical investment in our commonwealth!
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My thoughts on this year's Flag Day
ceremony are in a story below
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I was also thrilled to finally see House Bill 1460 – the Health System Protection Act – pass out of the Senate Institutional Sustainability & Innovation Committee. That is the farthest this bill, a reintroduction for me, has progressed on the Senate side. We are currently working through amendment language we have some concerns about, but I am hopeful we will finally see this legislation get a vote on the Senate floor and make it to the Governor’s desk. You can watch my testimony to the Senate committee below.
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I hope everyone is taking time to enjoy this beautiful weather, has some time to enjoy some of the FIFA festivities around the region (please note the extra services SEPTA is providing to fans below in the FYI section), and continues to root on our Phillies, who have come to life!
Have a wonderful weekend, I’ll be back in Harrisburg next week and will continue to keep you updated on our budget progress. Go Phillies!
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P.S. - PennDOT's PA352/US1 Project Report is out...Read about it below!
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Harrisburg Update
- My legislation on the move!
- Generate Legislative Update: EITC transparency, utility rates
- Rallying for school nurses
In the District
- Public comments are open for PA352/US1 Project
- Talking Medicaid with Main Line Health
- VFRA seminar with AG DeFoor
- License plate replacement event in Radnor
Events
- Blood Drive (7/23 and 7/29)
- Paper Shredding & Electronics Recycling (8/8)
FYI
- Nominations open for 2027 PA Trail of the Year
- SEPTA service plan for World Cup, July 4th, & America250 events
Community Events & Announcements
- Self-Guided Road Tour w/ Edgmont Twp Historical Society (6/27)
- Stars, Stripes, & Summer Bites w/ Edgmont Twp & America250PA (6/27)
- Radnor Fireworks Spectacular (7/2)
- Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade (7/4)
- Newtown Square Fire Co. Upcoming Events (7/4)
- Chesco Pops concert: Celebrate America (7/12)
- Adventures in Ecological Horticulture - at Haverford College (7/15)
- Meet Phillies Legends at the Newtown Square Fire House (7/19)
- Bartram's Covered Bridge Siding Restoration
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My legislation on the move!
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HB2553 – Improving e-waste recycling
On Monday, my bill to improve electronic waste recycling passed through the House Environmental and Natural Resource Protection Committee. This legislation would modernize the Covered Device Recycling Act to reflect today’s electronics landscape and the growing volume of devices entering our waste stream. It would also expand access to convenient, responsible recycling across the Commonwealth, ensuring more residents and small businesses alike have practical options to manage end-of-life electronics safely and efficiently.
The measure would also strengthen end-of-life data protection by expanding access to secure, certified recycling pathways, giving you confidence your personal and business information is protected as devices are retired.
At the same time, it would capture more electronic waste and critical minerals that’s been going into recycling streams; which would reduce environmental impact, keep more hazardous components out of landfills, and support a stronger, more sustainable circular economy.
I am hoping to see HB2553 come to the House floor for a vote in the near future!
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HB2162 – Incentivizing pharmaceutical & biomedical innovation
Yesterday, my legislation to help incentivize pharmaceutical and biomedical in PA passed the House in a bipartisan vote! Pennsylvania’s biotech sector is growing at record speed, with strong employment gains, high research and development investment, and a concentration of innovation in pharmaceuticals and research labs.
Under Governor Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania has attracted over $40.4 billion in private-sector investment, creating 22,000+ jobs. But in the face of all this success, we can still be doing more to encourage strategic investments which will continue to position our Commonwealth as a top-tier biotech hub in the U.S.
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HB2162 would help to further growth and innovation by allowing pharmaceutical manufacturers seeking to put down roots in our Commonwealth an easier path forward. This legislation was borne out of a pharmaceutical factory tour organized by the Competitiveness Caucus, the bicameral, bipartisan caucus chaired in the House by my colleague Representative Friel.
The bio-tech companies we met with brought forth the regulatory barriers they have faced in bringing products to market here in the Commonwealth and how existing red tape has discouraged them from selecting Pennsylvania as their home state for licensing and operations.
This legislation would allow manufacturers to obtain a temporary home state license here in PA concurrently while seeking FDA approval, a move that would significantly cut down on the lag time between approval and bringing products to market. In many other states, this is standard practice – this small change will support companies that want to do business in Pennsylvania and would bolster our position as a hub for medical and biotech innovation.
I am so excited to see this bill move out of the House, and take its next steps toward the Gov’s desk!
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General Legislative Update: EITC transparency, utility rates
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Transparency for EITC Funds
On Monday, after a lengthy floor debate, my colleagues and I successfully passed HB 2632 through the House! This bill aims to increase oversight of our state’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). The bill saw a passage with a 105-97 vote and is now on its way to the Senate.
HB 2632 is an incredibly important piece of legislation that has had some miscommunication surrounding it. This bill does not seek to take scholarship money away from deserving recipients, but redirects funding to target students who reside in low-income areas while increasing oversight of the program.
The EITC program costs Pennsylvania taxpayers $680 million a year, and we want to ensure that Pennsylvania tax dollars are being used for what they are allocated for. To ensure transparency and communication with those whom this bill affects, I’ve talked with leaders around our district of private and parochial schools to understand how EITC is used and affects their districts. Talking with them gave me great insight into both sides of the bill and the importance of this legislation.
Starting in 2027, EITC and its accompanying Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit Program (OSTC) would be changed from their current forms and would merge into a new program, the “Education Options Tax Credit Program. The new program will maintain its current funding levels while improving the structure and oversight of the program. This means that Pennsylvanians can be assured that their tax dollars are being used as intended for the betterment of their children's education in an effective manner.
I am happy to see this legislation pass the House so that we are one step closer to ensuring Pennsylvania tax dollars are used effectively for the education of our children!
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Return on Equity to Lower Utility Costs
In the House, we’ve been working on solutions to get your utility bills down while making sure utility companies generate the revenue they need to guarantee PA’s energy infrastructure can meet our demands (and yes, we’re keeping in mind that utility corporations are making record profits while we’re paying higher rates than ever).
We’ve also been taking steps to make sure those demands aren’t being overrun by AI data centers.
The Return on Equity Act (HB 2224) is shaping up to be one of those primary solutions. To put a complicated process as simply as possible: PA’s current system for determining the utility rates you pay delivers excessive profits to corporations & their shareholders. The level of profit utility shareholders can receive is called “return on equity” (ROE), and it’s the biggest driver of unfair rate hikes that generate profits for shareholders on our backs. PA has one of the highest ROE rates in the country.
Correcting PA’s outdated ROE wouldn’t touch the revenue utilities use for infrastructure upgrades or to pay the service workers who keep our power going – it would only prevent them from overcharging us to boost shareholder profits.
HB 2224 would ensure you pay what is absolutely necessary for safe and reliable service, and not a penny more, and I was proud to vote for its passage yesterday. It’s now in the hands of the Senate.
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One of my favorite parts of this job is helping to encourage our young adults to become engaged in the governance process and to show them how they can make their voices heard. They are our hope for the future!
I was really excited to welcome three very talented and engaged students from the 168th to the Capitol this past session week.
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Ethan Strain, our summer legislative intern from Middletown and rising sophomore at University of Pittsburgh joined me for a busy session day where we rallied for our school nurses and spent time learning about how we move legislation.
Harper Wyckoff and her mother, Eve (below left) also traveled to the Capitol this week where Harper, a Radnor resident and student, had the opportunity to meet with several of my colleagues as she lobbied for expanded Holocaust education in our schools.
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Thank you, Ethan, for visiting and for all the work you are doing in our office to help your neighbors!
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We were also excited to welcome Lauren and her mother Audrey Greenberg (above right), also Radnor residents, who came to the Capitol to discuss how the legislature can regulate the non-consensual use of photos to create damaging AI deepfakes and how we can better educate about the damaging impacts of AI when it is misused.
These young adults are already working hard to make a difference in their communities and make me so hopeful for the future!
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Rallying for school nurses
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My mother was a volunteer school nurse, so I know firsthand that school nurses quietly perform some of the most important work happening in our education system.
Last week, I was thrilled to welcome the 168th's own Leigh Ann Coary, certified school nurse, and members of the Association of Professional School Nurses (APPSN) including President, Holly Verderame, and incoming legislative chair, Kayla Daugherty, to rally for House Bill 2285 to reduce the school nurse to student ratio (did you know it is currently 1:1500) and revise the reimbursement formula so schools receive proper compensation for the services they provide.
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Students today have more complex medical needs. Our school nurses are managing much more than in the past and it is important they have the support they need to properly care for these needs. I am grateful to Leigh Ann for bringing this concern to my attention and I am thrilled to partner with our dedicated school nurses to work to bring about needed change!
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Public comments are open for PA352/US1 Project
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As you may have heard, PennDOT is now accepting public comment on the DRAFT Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) Report for the PA352/US1 Roadway Improvements Project.
The Draft PEL Report can be found online at the project website at pa352us1delco.com or you can review hard copies of the document in my office or at the Middletown Township Building.
Middletown Township Administration Building
27 Pennell Road
Media, PA 19063
Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Please call (610) 565-2700 in advance.
State Representative Lisa Borowski 168th District Office
24 S Newtown Street Road, Suite 100
Newtown Square, PA 19073
Monday through Thursday, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm; Friday, 9:00 am to 1:30 pm
Please call (484) 427-2884 in advance.
The study is being conducted by PennDOT in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The results of the PEL Study are meant to identify a transportation alternative to advance into the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process and preliminary engineering. This is a critical time for residents to weigh in on the project before it reaches the next stages of development.
All comments must be received by the end of the day, July 17, 2026. Comments may be submitted via the online comment form at pa352us1delco.com or by filling out a paper comment form at one of the locations listed above. Comments may also be submitted in writing to:
PennDOT District 6-0
7000 Geerdes Boulevard
King of Prussia, PA 19406
Attn: Madeleine Fausto, Project Manager
Comments received during the public review period along with PennDOT’s responses to those comments will be included as part of the final PEL Study for the project.
According to PennDOT, "The Route 352 (Middletown Road) and U.S. 1 Roadway Improvements Project will be designed to improve safety and reduce congestion at the Cloverleaf Interchange between U.S. 1 and Route 352 at the terminus of the Media Bypass Interchange with Baltimore Pike. The project also includes improvements to the adjoining roadway network comprised of Baltimore Pike, Route 352, and Route 452."
Check out the Draft PEL Report in person or online and make your voice heard!
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Talking Medicaid with Main Line Health
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I was thrilled to join leaders from Main Line Health and the healthcare industry in the region for 15th Annual Disparities in Care Colloquium at Lankenau Hospital. I served as a panelist for a discussion on how projected Medicaid cuts will affect Pennsylvanians and our hospital systems.
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Moderated by Jim Paradis, President of Riddle Hospital I was joined by Dana Rainey, Vice President, Payor Strategies at MLH, Jonathan Arend, MD, Medical Director for Quality & Value-Based Care at MLH and Jolene Calla, Esq., Vice President of Finance & Legal Affairs for The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP).
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Here in Delco, we know the challenges our hospitals face as they work to care for the growing needs of their communities. Cuts to Medicaid will hurt all of us as hospitals struggle to cover costs in the face of stressors like low reimbursement rates coupled with the growing cost of doing business.
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VFRA seminar with AG DeFoor
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I was thrilled to welcome Pennsylvania Auditor General Tim DeFoor and his team to Radnor Fire Company to discuss best practices for volunteer fire relief associations. We had a full house with representatives from over 15 local fire companies in attendance.
I really enjoyed seeing AG DeFoor and his team. Did you know he is the first Auditor General who is actually an auditor by training? He has brought years of experience and best practices to this elected role and built an impressive team.
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As our volunteer fire companies work hard to serve their communities, it is nice to know they have the support of the Auditor General’s office to help them understand all the ins and outs of properly utilizing fire relief funds.
Thank you to RFC’s Brian Zimmerman and to Marie from my office for leading the charge on bringing this important and informative program to the district. Thank you, AG DeFoor and staff for visiting the 168th and for being ready and able to assist our volunteer fire relief associations!
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On Friday, the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association hosted their annual Flag Day Ceremony and I was honored to join DCVMA President Joe Daly, Vice President Ralph Galati, and many board members as well as the de Botton Family for this special program honoring all those who stood up to defend our national symbol and fight for it and all we stand for as a nation.
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Following the ceremony, we joined the flag retirement ceremony, and under the watchful eye of Newtown Square Fire Company Chief and DCVMA Board Member Chris Young, we properly disposed of, with honor, worn American flags while Taps was played by bugler extraordinaire Martin Holahan.
This is always such a special day for Delco, and it was especially meaningful to me to celebrate with so many veterans and their families as well as the tremendous leaders from our communities. It was also an opportunity to announce the 2026 recipients of the DCVMA Freedom Medal.
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Learn more about DCVMA and one of the country’s largest veterans memorials outside of DC (yes, it proudly stands in the 168th and Newtown Township) at the link.
You can also learn more about Comcast’s Operation Old Glory flag replacement program. Through this program Comcast will replace worn or damaged flags outside homes and businesses at no cost to the property owners.
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License plate replacement event
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Alex and Kate did a great job helping neighbors replace their worn and illegible license plates last week at the Radnor Township Building! Officers from Radnor PD were on hand to inspect the old license plates and sign off the applications for new ones.
Thank you, Radnor PD!
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Nominations open for 2027 PA Trail of the Year
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You can now nominate your favorite trail to be selected as Pennsylvania’s 2027 Trail of the Year. To be considered, a nomination form and supporting documentation must be submitted online by July 31. The trail management organization will be recognized as the award recipient.
Visit the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year webpage for more information about where to submit the form and supporting materials. The Trail of the Year will be announced in early 2027. ?
The winning trail will be recognized in a news release; through a commemorative poster for statewide distribution; with a trailhead marker along the trail; and a grant for educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection on the trail.
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SEPTA service plan for World Cup & America250 events
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A historic summer is on the horizon for Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs! SEPTA is preparing to help host the FIFA World Cup (June 11–July 19), celebrate America’s 250th birthday (June 19–July 4), and welcome Major League Baseball’s All-Star Week (July 10–July 14).
After more than a year of planning and coordination with local, state, federal, and private-sector partners, SEPTA has developed an enhanced service plan to help fans, visitors, and residents travel safely and efficiently throughout the region.
Enhanced service – Extra B service on World Cup match days, late night service following evening matches and Fourth of July Fireworks, and service to Fan Festival activities at Lemon Hill.
Employee Ambassadors – Stationed throughout the system to provide assistance and help create a welcoming experience for visitors and residents alike. 600 employees have stepped forward, covering 1,200 shifts and dedicating 4,800 hours to supporting customers and visitors.
SEPTA FIFA World Cup 2026 Service Page: Customers traveling during this busy period are encouraged to visit the FIFA World Cup Service Page to plan their trips and stay informed about service changes and potential route detours.
Free Post-Match Rides from NRG Station on the B: Through a sponsorship agreement with Airbnb and Philadelphia Soccer 2026, SEPTA will provide free rides home on the B from NRG Station after all six Philadelphia World Cup matches, beginning at halftime and continuing for two hours following the end of each match.
Added B Service to and from NRG Station: SEPTA will add 10 additional B trains to NRG prior to each match, as well as additional post-game trains to support added capacity.
Late Night Service on the B and L: The B and L will operate overnight on match days, with trains running every 30 minutes to and from select stations.
Extended Regional Rail Service: Regional Rail service will be extended to accommodate late ending games, including on June 19 and July 4.
L, B, T and Regional Rail will have special schedules with enhanced service to support the July 4 events happening throughout the city. Most Regional Rail lines (except AIR, CHE, CHW, WAR, WIL) provide additional inbound and outbound service before the fireworks; all Regional Rail lines (except Airport) will provide late-night outbound service from Jefferson, Suburban and William H. Gray III 30th St stations after the fireworks. All other services (D, M and Bus) operate on a Sunday schedule. Routes that do not have Sunday schedules will not operate.
Customers are encouraged to visit the July 4th Service information page for schedules and complete service information.
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Community Events & Announcements
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Marple Newtown 4th of July Parade
Parade will be held Saturday, July 4th, 2026
Parade Starting Time: 10:00AM
Route: EAST on West Chester Pike, St. Albans Circle, Newtown Square to Broomall Fire House, Malin Road, Broomall
Rain Date: Sunday, July 5th, 2026 (Check in between 8:30-9:30am, Parade at 10:00am)
For more information call MN Recreation at 610-353-2326 or email Rich Ehnow at rehnow@mnsd.org
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Bartram’s Covered Bridge Siding Restoration
To be a part of the restoration story, check out this link. In 2019 Newtown and Willistown Townships began planning the latest restoration of the Bartram’s Covered Bridge. Both Townships agreed to undertake the preservation and restoration work, but it took a few years to formalize the plans and allocate the money. Willistown and Newtown are each contributing $375,000 toward this renovation and reconstruction, with the state contributing $100,000. Work on the stone foundation was completed in 2024, and the timber truss and decking work began in 2025. The Bridge was elevated so that the timber work could be performed. Both Burr arches were repaired and bridge decking and various wood components were repaired or replaced. This work was completed in May 2026.
The siding for the bridge was not part of the project. The existing siding in not in good condition, but the two townships have exhausted their available resources, so the Newtown Square Historical Society has committed to raising the funds necessary to replace the siding. More information
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
28-B East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 772-2005
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District Office
24 S. Newtown Street Rd., Suite 100
Newtown Square, PA 19073
(484) 427-2884
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