I asked state Treasurer Stacy Garrity about the long-term sustainability of this year’s proposed $51.4 billion budget. More specifically, I asked about the consequences of relying on our reserves to fund it. Here’s the short answer; this budget is paving the way for serious economic burdens by 2028 - burdens that will ultimately fall on the shoulders of our taxpayers. Draining the Rainy Day Fund without necessity is reckless and short-sighted.
During a budget hearing, I asked Attorney General, Dave Sunday, what resources his office needs to continue our fight against human trafficking. Human trafficking is one of the biggest human rights issues of our time, and we must do more to stop it. This fight requires action, not just awareness.
Education funding has a been at the forefront of discussions in Harrisburg. I’m looking out for our region, and I asked the Acting Secretary of Education why our school districts do not receive our fair share of funding as the fastest growing region in the entire Commonwealth. When the Acting Secretary responded that the formula was working as designed, I reminded her that the formula fails to account for population growth and has left taxpayers in Cumberland County holding the bag and facing tax increases year after year. Our seniors in particular cannot afford more property tax increases, and it’s unfair that our districts receive far less from the state than our similarly situated districts in other regions.
Pennsylvania’s roads and bridges are in a state of disrepair. We need to have a broad, comprehensive conversation about long-term sustainable funding that prioritizes mass transit, roads, bridges, ports, railways and airports. Without smart investment, we risk losing businesses, jobs and economic growth, instead of keeping our Commonwealth open for business.
As we review the budget, it’s important to ensure state spending protects all residents of our Commonwealth, especially in small boroughs like Mt. Holly Springs. I have watched tractor trailers cutting through the borough tear up streets with no recourse. I have also seen out-of-state trucks, well-exceeding the weight limit, cause damage that is now up to borough taxpayers to fix. I’m grateful the state police will be lending a hand to implement commercial vehicle inspections that will keep this from happening in the future.
During a hearing with the Department of Community and Economic Development, I had the opportunity to discuss the need for housing affordability. I believe the best way to reach that goal is by taking a market-driven approach, rather than creating new government programs where winners and losers are chosen.
For the 2025-26 Legislative Session, I am focusing on making Pennsylvania and Cumberland County better places to live, work and raise a family, while ensuring government is accountable, accessible and transparent for you, the taxpayers who elected us to serve.
While at the Farm Show last week, I had the opportunity to interview our state Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding. We had a great conversation about how ag powers Pennsylvania, how the 87th District's agricultural products were on display at show and more.
On Jan. 7, I took the oath to serve my second term as state representative for the 87th District. I'm grateful for all the support I've received on this journey and am looking forward to the work ahead. Thank you for putting your trust in me!
On Nov. 12, I had the opportunity to speak at Zonta’s annual rally against violence toward women. It remains important to highlight the services and support available to victims, as well as the need to strengthen PFAs to prevent further violence.
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