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Capitol Report
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#Listrak\DateStampLong#
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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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Slashing Time and Money for Homebuyers
Hurdles to housing affordability are plenty, and although Congress just acted to lower costs and limit red tape for homebuyers, Pennsylvania laws lag behind. That's why I've introduced House Bill 1370, a bill that would save homebuyers time and money on redundant permits. Check out my bill here.
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Protecting Vulnerable Students and Promoting Fairness in Public Education
Verifying residency is a necessary and important part of a school's administrative process. However, last year's legislative school code didn't protect homeless children who may not be able to prove residency. Additionally, families of cyber charter students faced a unique double standard, as the former twice-yearly mandate didn't apply to families whose children attend traditional brick-and-mortar school districts. A complex or biannual verification process could create bottlenecks by delaying tuition reimbursement payments to public cyber schools while paperwork is pending.
Thankfully, this year's education code implemented elements of my House Bill 2661, thus advancing greater parity among public schools — whether traditional school districts, brick-and-mortar charter schools or cyber charter schools — while protecting homeless children and promoting equal opportunity for students and their families. We're grateful that this year's education code addressed several of these concerns.
Learn more about the code and read my commentary in this article in Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
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2026-27 State Budget Enacted
The 2026-27 state budget passed earlier this week, approving $50.85 billion in spending. While I’m pleased the Legislature completed its budgetary obligation, the finished product spends too much and relies on accounting tricks to defer costs to the next fiscal year. I will continue to advocate for a budget that puts you first and prioritizes Fiscal responsibility.
Read my full statement here.
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Upcoming District Event
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Last Chance! Submit Your Photos of the 47th by 11:59 PM Today!
It’s that time of year again! The 47th Legislative District is a beautiful and vibrant community. Help showcase the rich history, natural beauty and economic opportunities of the 47th Legislative District through YOUR eyes by sharing photographs that capture the spirit of the 47th.
Photo submissions from ALL ages and skill levels are open through July 17 at 11:59 p.m.!
Public voting will start Aug. 4 and will conclude Aug. 25 at 11:59 p.m. Photographs with the most votes will win one of three gift cards. Learn more about the contest and rules here.
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New Law Aims to Stop Benefits Fraud
Legislation aimed at reducing theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is now law.
Under Act 21 of 2026, the Department of Human Services will upgrade the state’s Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to include chip-enabled technology. Chip cards are encrypted and more difficult for fraudsters to copy or hack into than standard cards. Recent reporting showed there were more than 5,000 cases of card skimming in Pennsylvania in the past year.
SNAP benefits help many families keep food on their tables. The law is a necessary step to both protect taxpayer dollars and ensure public assistance benefits reach those who truly need them.
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Another Tool to Fight Human Trafficking
A bill aimed at helping the Pennsylvania attorney general and law enforcement more effectively target and prosecute human trafficking has been approved by the House and Senate and is awaiting the governor’s signature to become law.
Recognizing the proliferation of sex trafficking, Senate Bill 45 moves most of the state’s prostitution offenses to the human trafficking section of the state Crimes Code. It also enhances the penalties for several of those offenses and places them under the jurisdiction of the Office of Attorney General, giving it the ability to better combat prostitution and human trafficking across the Commonwealth.
The bill has been a top priority for the bipartisan, bicameral PA Anti-Human Trafficking Caucus. The caucus aims to advance legislation to combat the crime and support victims, as well as educate elected officials and others about the signs of trafficking.
Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the nation. If you or someone you know is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
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PennDOT Seeking Workers for Winter Maintenance Program
While we are still feeling the summer heat, PennDOT is preparing for cooler temperatures by gearing up for its winter maintenance program.
Positions available may include CDL equipment operators, mechanics, dispatchers, tradesman helpers and semi-skilled laborers. The positions pay between $17.73 per hour to $28.94 per hour. The winter maintenance program runs from September through April.
Anyone wishing to apply should visit www.employment.pa.gov and go to the PennDOT Winter Maintenance Program posting.
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Enjoying the Great Outdoors!
July is Outdoors for All Month in Pennsylvania, and no matter where you live in the Commonwealth, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy it!
Pennsylvania is home to 125 state parks and millions of acres of forestland, as well as county and local parks that provide everything from active adventures to peaceful walking trails and picnic areas.
Find your favorite activities or a nearby park or forest by visiting the outdoor recreation section of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.
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