Dear Neighbor,
I’m pleased to report that Governor Josh Shapiro took executive action to ensure that those who rely on SEPTA can continue to access safe, reliable and affordable public transit.
To address a funding gap at SEPTA, Shapiro directed PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll to redirect $153 million in federal funds to SEPTA. This move will prevent service cuts and a planned 21 percent fare hike, maintaining operations for 800,000 daily riders in southeastern Pennsylvania through at least July 2025.
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This only provides critical short-term relief, however, so we need to focus on securing a long-term funding solution through the state budget or a stand-alone piece of legislation. This shift uses federal dollars allocated for projects not yet under construction, ensuring that there is no disruption to ongoing infrastructure projects.
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Pennie Open Enrollment runs to Jan. 15
Pennie’s Open Enrollment Period for the 2025 coverage year will run until Jan. 15.
During this period, individuals and families can enroll in health insurance plans, make changes to their existing coverage, or renew their current plans. It is a critical time to ensure you have the necessary health coverage for the upcoming year.
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Pennie can connect you to local, certified experts who can walk you through every step of the way. Find assistance by visiting the connect page at www.pennie.com.
For more information on Pennie, visit pennie.com or call Pennie Customer Service at 1-844-844-8040.
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Heating bill help available through LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps families living on low incomes in the form of a cash grant to help pay their heating bills. Households in immediate danger of being without heat can also qualify for a crisis grant. Both are grants that do not have to be repaid.
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There are two ways to apply for LIHEAP:
- Online: Apply using COMPASS.
- Paper: Download and print a paper application, fill it out, and return it to your local county assistance office.
More information can be found here: LIHEAP (pa.gov).
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Calling all artists, craftspeople: PA wants your work
The State Museum of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation invite artists and craftspeople to submit applications to exhibit their work in Art of the State 2025. Now in its 58th year, this prestigious juried exhibition boasts a tradition of presenting highly creative art by Pennsylvanians, chosen by a distinguished panel of jurors.
Art of the State 2025’s call for entry is open to Pennsylvania residents who are at least 18 years of age. Artists may submit work in one or more of five categories: painting, work on paper, sculpture, craft, and photography/digital media. Entries to Art of the State 2025 must be submitted online.
Additional information and the link to enter are available at www.statemuseumpa.org/callforentry. The application deadline is Friday, Jan. 17 at 11:59 p.m.
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Coffee with the Rep. is Dec. 12
My next Coffee with the Rep. will be held Thursday, Dec. 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
We'll discuss whatever state-related issue you'd like, with special focus on state programs available to you. I look forward to seeing you there!
If you miss Dec. 12, we hold these events every second Thursday of the month!
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Diaper Drive runs through Dec. 13
Please consider donating new and unused packs of diapers for my Diaper Drive, which runs through Dec. 13. You can drop off at my office, 6 S. Springfield Road, Unit A, Clifton Heights, PA 19018. You can also drop off at Sen. Kearney’s office and the Lansdowne YMCA.
The drive benefits Healthy Start, Nurse-Family Partnership, WIC, and the Maternity Care Coalition.
For more information, call 484-200-1563.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
106-A East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-8099
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District Office
6 S. Springfield Rd.
Clifton Heights, PA 19018
(484) 200-8262
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