Yesterday, I cast a “yes” vote for the 2026/27 state budget because it delivers practical solutions that improve the lives of Pennsylvanians – without raising taxes.

This budget makes meaningful investments that will benefit our community by:

• Strengthening our schools with continued investments in public education, school safety, special education, career training, and higher education.
• Helping working families keep more of what they earn through tax relief while making housing, utilities, and back-to-school shopping more affordable.
• Creating jobs and growing our economy by supporting small businesses, workforce training, agriculture, and economic development across Pennsylvania.
• Keeping communities safe with investments in violence prevention, first responders, after school programs, and services for survivors of crime.
• Supporting seniors, veterans, and retirees through enhanced retirement security and expanded access to important services.
• Delivering a cost-of-living adjustment and retirement security for teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who have given so much of their lives to making our state a better place.
• Protecting taxpayers by modernizing government, improving accountability, and making smart investments that deliver long-term value.

While no budget is perfect, this budget’s investments in education, affordability, public safety, and economic opportunity will help families succeed today and build a stronger Pennsylvania for tomorrow.

Pittsburgh Hires Veterans is holding a job fair on Wednesday, July 22 in the Duquesne University Ballroom from 10 a.m. – 2p.m.

This event is designed specifically for veterans who want to connect with employers who value their skills and experience.

Veterans interested in registering or learning more can click here.

Pennsylvania veterans struggling to locate lost DD-214 forms or other military documents can now get free assistance from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). These records are essential for accessing benefits, employment, and retirement credits.

Over the past year, DMVA has handled more than 1,300 record requests. Veterans can call 1-800-547-2838 or email RA-REQ@pa.gov. DMVA also assists with DD-215 corrections.

Pro tip: File your military papers safely as soon as you separate to avoid future headaches. For updates, sign up for the DMVA Veterans Registry at https://www.pa.gov/form/dmva/pennsylvania-veterans-registry.html.

PennDOT has fully closed I-376 Parkway East and Commercial Street through August 3 for the replacement of the Commercial Street Bridge. Expect heavy delays and significant congestion in the area.

511PA has launched a special website to help drivers navigate traffic with real-time travel information on primary routes to events around our area.

Click here for 511PA’s interactive mapping tool.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

101 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202045

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-3780

District Office

1350 Fifth Ave.
Coraopolis, PA 15108

(412) 264-4260

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