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Legislative Update |
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The latest news from the State Capitol
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Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link.
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Rising Water Rates Threaten Pennsylvanians' Pockets
Pennsylvania American Water's recent filing for a rate increase has raised serious questions about the financial impact on residents. Scheduled for August 2024, the proposed hikes, ranging from 25% to 32%, are cause for alarm. The prospect of such significant rate increases is disheartening, especially to families (like mine growing up) that are living paycheck to paycheck. This experience led me to become a member of the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee, even chairing a sub-committee, where my focus has been to hold utility companies accountable for their actions. The question at hand is clear – how high can rates climb before they price out hard-working residents?
Pennsylvania American Water's recent filing for a rate increase has raised serious questions about the financial impact on residents. Scheduled for August 2024, the proposed hikes, ranging from 25% to 32%, are cause for alarm, particularly for those living paycheck to paycheck. The prospect of such significant rate increases is disheartening. This experience led me to become a member of the House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee, even chairing a sub-committee, where my focus has been to hold utility companies accountable for their actions. The question at hand is clear – how high can rates climb before they price out hard-working residents?
The trajectory of these proposed increases hints at a potential shift toward a socialized water system. While utility companies often emphasize assistance programs, the reality is that a gap exists for working-class families who earn just enough to disqualify them from support. This oversight places an unfair burden on those already struggling to make ends meet. I am committed to being a vocal advocate for these families throughout the complaint process, ensuring that their concerns are not overlooked.
In my first year as a legislator, I have demonstrated this commitment by successfully passing House Bill 1619, a bill that mandates utility companies to clean up dead telecommunications lines and replace broken and duplicative utility poles, ensuring responsible operations.
I have also introduced legislation to remove the controversial "Weather Normalization Adjustment" from electric bills, prohibiting utilities from charging based on weather conditions. The people of Pennsylvania deserve affordable and accessible essential services and that perspective carries with me to Harrisburg.
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Helping AMVETS Keep Homeless Vets Warm
Maribeth and Sam, from my district office, stopped by Amvets Post 59 to drop off gifts for the Giving Tree, an annual tradition to help local homeless veterans. For more information, or to find out how you can help, contact or stop by the Post at 578 Fellows Avenue in Hanover Township.
You can also view the recent WNEP story on this effort.
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Commemorating our Coal Miners
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| photo courtesy of the Times Leader. |
Recently, I joined the Newport Township community to commemorate the spirit and dedication of the region’s anthracite coal miners with a new statue in their honor.
The event, hosted by Newport United and Newport Township, was attended by elected officials, community leaders and dozens of residents.
As I attended Newport Township’s Miner Statue dedication, it struck me how crucial it is for each generation to pause and reflect on our roots, particularly as we grow farther from immediate family members who worked in the mines. The coal mined in Northeast Pennsylvania, including from communities like Newport Township, played a vital role in fueling our nation through two world wars, symbolizing the enduring strength of our community and country.
You can read the full article written by the Times Leader by clicking here.
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Honoring Our Fallen
Over the weekend, I joined the Shawnee Fort DAR for its fifth and final Wreaths Across America ceremony at Hanover Green Cemetery commemorating our fallen heroes with the placement of over 100 wreaths. There is barely a time when the gift of freedom is not in jeopardy. But even in moments when the times appear dark and the idea of future peace seems uncertain, we remind ourselves of the men and women who have recognized that this country is worth fighting for.
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Join Me for Coffee this Thursday
THURSDAY I’m hosting my third Coffee & Conversation! Join me at Tammy's Kitchen in Larksville from 10-11a.m. to sip, chat and be heard! Last month, we gathered at the Bus Stop Cafe in Nanticoke with City Mayor Kevin Coughlin and City Manager Donna Wall for our casual coffee hour. The coffee and pastries are FREE! Please RSVP by calling 570-902-4082.
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