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Mobile Office Hours – Times & Locations! Dear Friends, I recently wrote an op-ed highlighting key laws now in effect in Pennsylvania and my legislative priorities for 2026. I look forward to a productive year ahead and continuing to serve the people of the 24th District. Read my full op-ed here. Sincerely,
In this Update:
Cyber Charter School Reform Now Law
I’m proud to share that my legislation requiring cameras to be on during cyber charter school classes is now law. This measure promotes greater accountability, student engagement, and allows educators to check in on students’ wellbeing. This is an important step to ensure quality education and support for all students learning online. NBC Philadelphia covered the story, watch here. 2025 Review: Reform Measures Targeting Fraud, Waste and Inefficiency
As we begin the second year of the 2025-26 legislative session, here’s a brief look at what we did last year to target fraud and waste, fix Pennsylvania’s broken system for issuing permits and more. Enacted with the state budget was sweeping permitting reform that sets clear timelines for state agencies to review permit applications and creates a permit tracking system, benefiting citizens and job creators. The budget also included measures ensuring individuals receiving Medical Assistance and SNAP benefits qualify for these taxpayer dollars and preventing dead people from receiving benefits. The Senate also passed legislation to eliminate 13 unnecessary boards, commissions and advisory committees and require automatic review of costly regulations after three years to ensure they remain in the public interest. You can find information on more government reform bills and other notable Senate-passed legislation here. More Pennsylvanians Now Eligible for PA ABLE Savings Accounts
More Pennsylvanians are eligible to participate in the PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Savings Program in 2026, Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced recently. Pennsylvanians with a qualifying disability occurring prior to age 46 are now eligible to open a PA ABLE account. Previously, eligibility required the disability to occur before age 26. PA ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities and their families to save up to $19,000 per year tax-free without impacting important benefits. For veterans, savings and investments in PA ABLE accounts do not impact VA benefits. Funds can be used for expenses such as housing, health care, transportation and assistive technology. Contributions are deductible on state income taxes, and qualified withdrawals are exempt from state and federal income taxes. New Montgomery County Jury Commissioner
I had the privilege of attending the swearing-in ceremony of Merry Broderick Woods as Montgomery County Jury Commissioner. I am confident that she will fulfill her duties with unwavering dedication to fairness, integrity, and public trust, thereby upholding the principles of justice. Congratulations, Merry, and thank you for your willingness to serve Montgomery County! Honoring Pennsburg Leaders for Their Service
I was proud to recognize Mayor Shagg and Councilwoman Stevens at the December Pennsburg Council Meeting for their many years of dedicated service to the borough. Their steady leadership and commitment have guided Pennsburg through years of change and growth, helping to strengthen the community for everyone who calls it home. Congratulations again, and thank you for your service! Food, Fun and Farming: PA Farm Show Set for Jan. 10-17
Hundreds of exhibits and an array of delicious food will be featured at the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show, Jan. 10-17 in Harrisburg. It’s a celebration of our commonwealth’s rich farming tradition and a lot of fun for families. In line with America’s 250th birthday, this year’s Farm Show “Growing a Nation” theme recognizes Pennsylvania’s leading role in our nation’s founding and future. Information is available to plan your visit, view the daily schedule and maps, and more. If you’ve never been to the Farm Show, check out the Frequently Asked Questions page. General admission is free. Celebrate America 250 in Longswamp Township
Join Longswamp Township in celebrating America250 on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10 AM to 12 PM. Participants will paint rocks to be added to the America250 Rock Garden. All rocks and painting supplies will be provided, just bring your creativity and community spirit! Don’t miss this fun, hands-on way to celebrate our nation’s history and leave your mark in the community. Jan. 31 Deadline for High School Seniors to Apply for America250PA Scholarships
High school seniors have until Jan. 31 to apply for $10,000 scholarships as part of the America250PA celebration. Twenty-five scholarships will be awarded throughout six regions to commonwealth high school seniors planning to attend a Pennsylvania college or university in the 2026-27 academic year. More than three dozen schools will match the $10,000 if the student chooses their institution. You can learn more and apply here. National Human Trafficking Awareness Month
Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the top 10 states for reported human trafficking cases. Over the past five years, 1,235 human-trafficking offenses were filed in 366 cases. The General Assembly has enacted several laws in recent years to combat this abuse in which people profit from the exploitation of others. You can find more statistics and ways to identify possible human trafficking in your community here.
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