We’re excited to share that the Pennsylvania House has passed H.B. 858—a key bill to fight property blight across our commonwealth.

As a co-prime sponsor, I’m proud to support this measure which would create a property registration list, ensuring accurate contact information is available to municipal code enforcement. This would bolster transparency and accountability, leading to healthier communities.

We’re thrilled to announce that our paid summer internship program is now accepting n exceptional opportunity for those looking to gain invaluable experience in state government and serve our community from within.

If you’re eager to learn, contribute, and build a career in public service, I encourage you to seize this chance. For further information or to submit your application, please contact my office at 814-455-6319.

We wanted to take a moment to share my heartfelt appreciation for the incredible opportunity we had at the Art Show held at the Mercy Hilltop Center. It was a pleasure to interact with our seniors and the dedicated Sisters of Mercy while supporting a center that offers such outstanding programs and services.

If you haven’t visited the Mercy Hilltop Center yet, we encourage you to stop by, explore everything they offer, or learn more by visiting their website.

The Saint Boniface Summer Festival and Chicken Dinner was a wonderful event for our community.

It was a great opportunity to come together, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate our vibrant neighborhood spirit.

We've been alerted to scam texts falsely presenting themselves as messages from the "Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Motor Vehicles (DMV)" and targeting Pennsylvania residents.

If you receive one, please do not reply or click on any links. PennDOT is aware of the situation and taking steps to resolve it. Stay vigilant and share this information to help keep our community safe.

This is a reminder that PA’s distracted driving law, also known as Paul Miller’s Law, goes into effect today, 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.

Also, you can learn more about Paul Miller Jr., the young man for whom the law was named, by clicking here.

As summer approaches, managing our energy use becomes essential to keeping bills low and our homes comfortable. We’d like to share a few simple tips that can make a big difference in your electricity costs this season.

Here are a few quick tips to help you manage your energy use and keep your bills in check:

• Optimize Your HVAC: Regularly clean filters and ensure your system is tuned for efficiency.
• Seal Up: Check that windows and doors are sealed to keep cool air in and hot air out.
• Smart Savings: Use programmable thermostats, unplug unused electronics, and run appliances during off-peak hours.
• Shop Wisely: Visit PAPowerSwitch.com to review your usage and compare rate options.

Taking these proactive steps can make a big difference as we head into a hot summer. 

College juniors, seniors, and graduate and law school students are invited to apply for a PA House Fellowship for Fall 2025. Fellows can be any student enrolled at a PA institution, or PA residents enrolled in out-of-state institutions.  Applications are due July 1.

Check out this link for additional details and to apply.

America250PA invites you to roll up your sleeves and volunteer for projects that will shape our communities while celebrating 250 years of American history. Whether you're passionate about the past, dedicated to community improvement, or simply eager to help your neighbors, this is your moment to contribute to something monumental.

We encourage you to join this meaningful effort. If you're ready to make a difference, please sign up to volunteer today by clicking here.

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