We are deeply grateful to all of our constituents who generously contributed to the recent drive supporting area veterans, organized by our dedicated Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds, Jeanne Sorg. Your kindness and commitment truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who bravely served our country. Thanks to your support, we are able to provide essential resources and show our veterans that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Together, we are building a stronger, more caring community, one act of generosity at a time.
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Energy Affordability: What’s Driving Rising Utility Bills?
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As a member of the Pennsylvania House Energy Committee, I recently took part in a joint informational hearing with the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee. We spent almost four hours examining an issue that affects families and businesses across our state: the steady rise in electricity bills and what steps we can take to make energy more affordable.
During the hearing, we heard from three panels of experts. They included Public Utility Commission Chairman Stephen DeFrank, Consumer Advocate Darryl Lawrence, representatives from the Pennsylvania Utility Law Project, the American Economic Liberties Project, MAREC Action, and Evergreen Action. Their testimony helped clarify the many factors that are driving up energy costs and reminded us how important it is to base future policy decisions on accurate information and real experiences from across the energy sector.
A major part of the discussion focused on the rapid growth of data centers and the enormous amount of electricity they require. According to the Consumer Advocate, projected demand from data centers made up a significant portion of PJM’s most recent capacity auction. This increase in demand has contributed to higher prices and has triggered new infrastructure projects, which are currently being paid for by ratepayers. He urged my colleagues and I to make sure that data center developers cover the additional costs they create instead of shifting those expenses onto everyday consumers.
Some of my colleagues raised concerns about finding the right balance. They noted that if Pennsylvania places too many financial obligations on data center operators, we could lose out on major investments and the good-paying jobs that come with them. Others pointed out that Pennsylvania already has strong advantages, including natural resources, a skilled workforce, and a solid energy infrastructure. They argued that requiring data centers to pay their fair share would not drive them away.
We also heard from members who shared what many of you are experiencing at home. Energy bills are rising quickly. Pennsylvania is no longer consistently producing more energy than it uses, and increased demand, especially from large industrial users, is putting additional pressure on the grid.
This hearing took place shortly after Governor Shapiro and other governors in the PJM region expressed support for reforms that would strengthen the grid and ensure that large energy users pay appropriately for the power they consume.
I continue to work to make sure that Pennsylvania’s energy policies protect ratepayers, support economic growth, and keep our grid reliable. These conversations are essential, and I appreciate the opportunity to bring your concerns into the room as we shape the path forward.
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Our communities thrive when state, local, county, and federal partners work toward a shared purpose. Every improvement we celebrate comes from teamwork, coordination, and a genuine commitment to serving the public. Collaboration brings out the best in every level of government, creating solutions that are smarter, faster, and more sustainable for the people who rely on us.
It is always inspiring to see what we can accomplish when we work side by side. Here is to continued partnership and progress for everyone.
Thank you for staying engaged and for all you do to make our community stronger.
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?? Calling all dog owners in the 151st! ??
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Join me and Montgomery County Treasurer Jason Salus TOMORROW for a tail-wagging good time at our Dog Licensing Event!
Whether your pup is a seasoned pro or a new addition to the family, this is your chance to get them licensed, meet fellow pet owners, and let us smother your fur baby with a bit of love.
Let’s make it a pawsitive morning together! ????
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We're hosting a Property Tax/Rent Rebate Assistance Event to help you file your Pennsylvania PTRR for the 2025 tax year! ???Join us and get the assistance you need.
?? Date: February 23rd, 2025 ??Time: 2 PM - 4:30 PM ??Location: Neshaminy Falls Club House (195 Stump Rd., Montgomeryville, PA 18936)
Our team will be there to guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have. Make sure to bring the necessary documents:
- 2025 Proof of Income (SSA-1099, W2s, Pension 1099-R, etc.)
- 2025 Proof of Property Taxes showing paid in full
- If you rent, a completed and signed Rent Certificate (RC-1000)
For more information, contact us at 267-282-6695 or RepCerrato@pahouse.net. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
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The Ukrainian American Sports Center is hosting a Blood Drive on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 2 PM to 7 PM at 1 Lower State Road, North Wales, PA.
Blood donations are critical for people undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care, and unexpected emergencies. By donating, you help ensure hospitals have the lifesaving blood supply they rely on every day.
Blood Drive Details
?? Ukrainian American Sports Center
?? Monday, February 23, 2026
? 2 PM to 7 PM
?? 1 Lower State Road, North Wales, PA
?? Make an appointment
Visit RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code uasc.
Or call 1 800 RED CROSS (1 800 733 2767)
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
122 Irvis Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 772-1999
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District Office
605 Horsham Rd.
Horsham, PA 19044
(267) 282-6695
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