Evaluating the GAP Legislative Package
In this week's video, I explain Pennsylvania’s uniformity clause and how that impacts our legislation to eliminate school property taxes.
In this week's video, I explain Pennsylvania’s uniformity clause and how that impacts our legislation to eliminate school property taxes.
On July 24, I appeared on CBS 21 News' Face the State. I spoke with Joel D. Smith about the General Assembly's obligation to create clear, constitutional guidance for judges to review second degree murder (also called felony murder) cases.
As someone who has long stood with crime victims, I was deeply disappointed by the actions taken yesterday in Harrisburg. And as an advocate for second chances, I’ve seen firsthand what can be achieved when lawmakers work together toward meaningful, balanced solutions. Unfortunately, House Bill 1042 fell short on both fronts. It neither supported victims nor reflected the kind of bipartisan cooperation our communities deserve. This is not responsible governance. It’s a rushed decision that risks destabilizing our justice system and causing renewed pain for families already carrying heavy burdens.
On July 23, the House debated legislation that should’ve created clear, constitutional guidance for judges to review second degree murder (also called felony murder) cases. Instead, House Democrats amended an agreed-to, bipartisan compromise with the Senate with controversial provisions. As a result, the Legislature will miss the deadline set by the state Supreme Court. The victims we've lost and the families they’ve left behind deserve better.
On July 12, the General Assembly passed its state budget. I supported the compromise, which funded education at a historic level, ensured senior services, and allocated dollars for law enforcement training.
The VICTIM Act will support law enforcement as it seeks to bring justice to cold cases. I’m thrilled we could incorporate funding into the 2026-27 state budget.
On June 30, the House adopted my House Resolution 531 to designate June as Scoliosis Awareness Month in the Commonwealth. The inspiration for this resolution came from a young woman, a constituent of the 88th District, who used her story to advocate for others.
On June 24, the House approved my House Bill 2437, which would permit counties to use Act 13 funding to improve county and municipal bridges in accordance with state and federal laws. I am looking forward to seeing this solution enacted, so residents can reap the benefits of improved infrastructure and safer bridges.
On June 22, the House passed my bipartisan House Bill 133. I am proud to have worked alongside Rep. Rick Krajewski (D-Philadelphia) on this bill that would create a pathway for parental rights reinstatement. I am hopeful it will be passed by the Senate and brought to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.
House Bill 133 would facilitate parental rights reinstatement when it’s in the best interests of Pennsylvania children. I am grateful my amendment to this bill was adopted unanimously by the House.
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