My office, above the Starbucks at Forbes and Murray Avenues, is open every weekday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Stop by to learn more about the state services we provide.
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Nursing Home Ownership Accountability Act
This week, I began building support for new legislation designed to protect some of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable residents – people living in long-term care facilities.
As seen with the bankruptcies of Genesis, Comprehensive, Bedrock and others, financial instability at nursing homes can quickly threaten the health, safety and continuity of care for residents. The Nursing Home Ownership Accountability Act would strengthen oversight when nursing homes change ownership or operators, helping protect residents during one of the highest-risk periods for care disruptions.
The legislation would require new operators to obtain state approval before taking control of a facility, increase transparency around ownership structures, and hold operators accountable for past bankruptcies, license suspensions, and other violations. It also establishes financial safeguards and operational standards to help ensure stability for residents and workers.
Modeled after bipartisan reforms enacted in Virginia and Ohio, this legislation would help prevent unqualified or unethical operators from taking over Pennsylvania nursing homes without proper review. When families make the difficult decision to entrust the care of a loved one to a facility, they should be able to feel confident that someone is looking out for their interests even as facilities are bought and sold. This legislation would allow the Commonwealth to do just that.
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Community Events and Resources
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District 23 High School Essay Contest
Deadline THIS SUNDAY, May 31
I’m partnering with the League of Women Voters to host a civic essay contest commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
One high school junior or senior from the 23rd Legislative District will be selected to represent our community at a special Pennsylvania House session and civic learning experience at Congress Hall in Philadelphia on Sept. 9, 2026.
To enter, students should submit a 200–400-word response to one of three essay prompts focused on democracy, civic responsibility and America’s future.
Eligible students must live in the 23rd District and be high school juniors or seniors in fall 2026. Participants can check their legislative district using the Pennsylvania General Assembly district finder. Support for the selected student includes a $200 travel stipend (provided after), student meals during the event and one night of hotel accommodations.
Learn more and apply through the essay contest application form.
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More Time to Apply for a PA Property Tax or Rent Rebate
The application deadline for the 2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended. If you haven’t had a chance to apply yet, my office is happy to assist you. Renters and property owners whose annual income is below $48,110 and who are over age 65, widows or widowers over age 50, or individuals with a permanent disability aged 18–64 are eligible for up to a $1,000 rebate.
Learn more here or reach out to my office for assistance!
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Parks on Tap Beer Garden
Friday, May 29, 3 - 7 p.m. | Schenley Park Visitor Center
Enjoy live music, wooded trails, dinner from local food trucks and a special summer-inspired beer created for the event series.
Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket. No registration is required.
Learn more about the Parks on Tap series here.
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Pgh Book Fest
Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Carnegie Library Main Branch
Celebrate Pittsburgh’s rich literary history and love of reading at this event for all ages. The festival will feature local and nationally recognized authors, dozens of poets, children’s activities, bookstores, entertainment, publishers, and more.
Learn more and register for events here.
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BikePGH Spring Ride & Picnic
Saturday, May 30, 10:30 a.m. | Frick Environmental Center
Revel in Pittsburgh’s growing bike network with BikePGH’s first-ever Spring Bike Picnic. Riders will enjoy a 15-mile marshaled ride through some of the city’s bike lanes, followed by a picnic with hot dogs, lawn games, and community fun at the finish line.
Tickets are $35 for general admission and $15 for youth. Learn more here.
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Riverlife Chalk Fest 2026
Saturday, May 30, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. & Sunday, May 31, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Isabella Street & Allegheny Landing, North Shore
More than two dozen professional chalk artists will create large-scale murals while visitors can meet the artists, contribute to community chalk art, enjoy live music, and explore food and drink from local vendors. The festival will also spotlight emerging talent through its “Up & Coming” artist category, including youth artists working alongside nationally recognized professionals.
Learn more here.
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Queer Family Community Group
Wednesday, June 3, 6 p.m. | The Midwife Center, Third Floor Classroom
Attend The Midwife Center’s Queer Family Community Group for queer parents, expecting parents, and those navigating the family-building journey. This welcoming gathering offers a space to share experiences, build community, and support one another through the joys and challenges of parenting.
Learn more here.
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Help Care for the Allderdice Trees
Through Mid-September | Allderdice High School
The Allderdice Trees were planted in memory of the 11 victims of the Tree of Life tragedy and stand today as a living symbol of our community’s resilience, remembrance, and hope. Several trees have recently been replanted and need extra care to help them grow strong and healthy.
Volunteers are needed to help water the trees weekly throughout the summer, with additional attention during especially hot and dry weather.
Learn more and sign up for a shift here.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
152 Main Capitol Building
PO Box 202023
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 705-1875
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District Office
2345 Murray Avenue
Suite 205
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 422-1774
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