Our community came out in full force to show its devotion to our military heroes on Memorial Day. There were beautiful tributes at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home (above) and the Erie County Veterans Memorial Park (below).

In a moving ceremony hosted by Wesleyville American Legion Post 571 (below), the family of U.S. Army Private First Class John A. Oshlick – who received the Silver Star Medal for his bravery during WWII – was presented with a banner honoring his heroism. Commander Rich Sambuchino was also recognized for his decade of service as commander of Post 571.

Our family started the day by attending a Memorial Day Mass and Communion Breakfast hosted by the Polish Falcons. It was a beautiful day filled with gratitude.

Veterans and service members: please remember that the state offers a wide range of services and benefits. Please visit this page to learn more.

I recently joined Mayor Joe Schember, state Rep. Pat Harkins, and other officials at JoAnna Connell Elementary School to celebrate Erie-based Zurn Elkay Water Solutions’ donation of 50 Elkay filtered bottle filling stations. The stations, which will be installed across nine Erie public elementary schools to replace unfiltered drinking fountains, will bring students and school staff the cleanest, highest-quality drinking water possible. You can read more here.

This is a reminder that PA’s distracted driving law, also known as Paul Miller’s Law, goes into effect on Thursday, June 5. The law bans drivers from using interactive mobile devices while driving – even when stopped at traffic lights or in traffic.

Here’s what you need to know:

• What's banned: Holding or supporting a phone or other device with any part of your body while driving. This includes texting, browsing, or dialing unless it's a single-button press.
• What's allowed: Using hands-free technology like Bluetooth or dashboard mounts for calls, navigation, or music. Emergency calls to 911 are also permitted.
• Enforcement: For the first year, violations will result in written warnings. Starting June 5, 2026, a first offense will carry a $50 fine plus court costs and fees.

You can read more about the law here.

Are you proud of your graduating high school senior? Send us a private message or an email to RepMerski@pahouse.net and include a picture of the graduate, their name and their school, and we will feature them on our Facebook page! Congratulations again to the entire class of 2025!

I was honored to attend the Sisters of Mercy “Catherine’s Giving Circle” grant presentation last week. The Giving Circle is a group of women supporting the work of social service agencies located in the Diocese of Erie. Congratulations to all the grant recipients whose work supports women and children.

Speaking of grants, please remember that the state has a handy tool to help search for funding opportunities. Visit this page to search, or this page for a list of all the latest programs.

Finally, please remember that my talented staff can help you with a variety of state-related matters, from filing for a Property Tax/Rent Rebate to obtaining a disability placard or senior bus pass – to name just a few. Contact us or stop by to see how we can help! 

Bob Merski

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319