$1.7 Million Secured for Erie’s Life Sciences Industry

Rep. Robert Merski March 27, 2025 | 4:29 PM

Advancing Innovation and Health Care in Erie

We worked in collaborative fashion to secure $1.7 million in funding to support Erie’s life sciences industry. This transformative investment will bring a cutting-edge First Ascent Biomedical laboratory to Gannon University, creating 38 new jobs while driving advancements in cancer treatment.

First Ascent Biomedical is revolutionizing cancer care with innovative diagnostic methods, and this new facility will strengthen Erie’s position as a leader in health care and biotechnology. The collaboration between state funding, Gannon University, and private partners showcases the incredible potential of public and private partnerships to grow our economy and improve lives.

I’m proud to support initiatives like this that fuel innovation, create opportunities, and enhance health care in our community. Erie is thriving, and together, we’re building a brighter future.

Boosting Fraternal, Social & Veterans Clubs Across PA

We’ve officially introduced legislation (H.B. 1050) to modernize charitable gaming in Pennsylvania’s social clubs! This bill updates small games of chance by introducing exciting options like pickboards, progressive pull tabs, and electronic pull-tabs—all while ensuring casino-style games stay off the table.

We’re also cutting red tape by streamlining the Small Games of Chance Law, making it easier for our incredible fraternal, social, and veterans clubs to thrive. These updates are a win for our local communities, helping to support the clubs that bring us together while keeping responsible gaming practices in place.

This is an exciting step forward, and I’ll keep you updated as it moves through the legislative process.

Click here to watch a video of me speaking about this important topic.

Protecting Pennsylvanians by Strengthening Health Care

I’m excited to share a significant step forward in ensuring a healthier, brighter future for all Pennsylvanians! We’ve passed four essential health care bills—H.B.s 404, 535, 618, and 755—designed to protect your access to affordable, vital health services.

These measures go beyond being legislative victories; they’re a steadfast commitment to the health and well-being of families across our commonwealth.

Here’s what they aim to achieve:

H.B. 404: Allows parents to keep adult children on their insurance plans until age 26, safeguarding a critical ACA provision at the state level.
H.B. 535: Bans annual and lifetime caps on essential health benefits, ensuring no one faces financial ruin due to arbitrary insurance limits.
H.B. 618: Prohibits insurance discrimination based on pre-existing conditions, securing coverage for all Pennsylvanians regardless of medical history.
H.B. 755: Guarantees access to over 100 preventive health services without cost-sharing, from immunizations to chronic illness screenings, even if federal protections waver.

Together, these bills underscore Pennsylvania’s leadership in championing equitable and resilient health care. They’re a promise to protect families, promote fairness, and prioritize preventive care for generations to come.

Celebrating Community and Unity During Special Iftar Evening

The Afghan Community of Erie’s Iftar dinner was a truly special experience filled with fellowship, connection, and the spirit of community. I am deeply grateful to the Afghan Community of Erie for their warm hospitality and for bringing people together in such a meaningful way.

Sharing this meal during Ramadan was a beautiful reminder of the strength of unity and the bonds that tie us all together. Thank you for opening your hearts and creating such a welcoming and inspiring celebration!

Take advantage of PA’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit this tax season

A friendly reminder for eligible residents to take advantage of Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit before the April 15, 2025, tax filing deadline. This credit, expanded under a law passed by the General Assembly, provides financial relief to working families with child or dependent care expenses.

The credit matches 100% of the federal Child Care Tax Credit, offering a maximum of $1,050 for one child/dependent and $2,100 for two or more, with minimums of $600 and $1,200, respectively. Eligibility includes expenses for children under 13, spouses, or other dependents who are physically or mentally incapable of self-care. The credit is refundable, meaning taxpayers can receive a full refund after tax obligations.

To claim the credit, taxpayers must file a PA-40 form along with PA Schedule DC, Federal Form 2441, and 1040 Schedule 3. The Department of Revenue encourages filing through myPATH, Pennsylvania’s free online tax filing system.

You can find more information about the tax credit here or contact my office.

PennDOT Invites Public Input on Plans to Restore Interstate 79 Bridges in Erie

PennDOT has announced plans to rehabilitate the I-79 twin bridges over the CSX and Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks and West 16th Street in Erie. This project aims to ensure the safety and longevity of these critical structures, which serve over 20,500 vehicles daily.

The proposed work includes replacing the concrete decks and barriers, repainting steel components, and conducting structural repairs. Roadway improvements and resurfacing will also be part of the project, which is expected to begin in 2026 and take two construction seasons to complete.

Public input is essential, and PennDOT invites you to review the plans and share your thoughts. Details, including project documents and an online comment form, can be found here. Those unable to access the information online can contact Project Manager Jeanette Uhl at juhl@pa.gov or 814-678-7084.

Your feedback will help shape the future of this vital project. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions.

Heating Bill Help is Just a Click Away with LIHEAP

There’s still time to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), but don’t wait—the application is April 18! LIHEAP provides vital cash grants to help cover heating bills and crisis grants for emergencies like broken heating equipment or fuel shortages.

Here’s what you need to know:

Grants Range: $200 to $1,000, based on household size, income, and fuel type.
Eligibility: Renters and homeowners can apply—you don’t need to have overdue bills or receive public assistance to qualify.
How to Apply: Visit COMPASS or contact your local County Assistance Office. For help, call the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away! Apply now to ensure a warm and safe home for your family. Please share this information with anyone who may benefit.