On Tuesday, I cast my affirmative vote for H.B.1261—a landmark measure to safeguard our firefighters and communities from toxic PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” found in certain firefighting foams and gear.

We owe a special thanks to Erie’s firefighters, who were among the first to raise the alarm about these persistent chemicals. Their advocacy shaped this legislation from day one. It’s an honor to stand alongside those who put their lives on the line for our safety—and to give them the PFAS-free tools they deserve.

Our team was honored to join LECOM Health for the official groundbreaking of the new Colonial Family Pharmacy in Albion. This project marks an important step toward ensuring every member of our community has access to quality, convenient health care right here at home.

Their commitment to building healthy, happy, and thriving communities is truly inspiring. Once the pharmacy opens its doors, residents in Albion will no longer need to travel long distances for prescriptions, vaccinations, and everyday health needs.

We welcomed a delegation of Pennsylvania Realtors from Northwest Pennsylvania to the State Capitol to discuss the most pressing housing issues facing our region and the current state of the housing market.

It was a productive conversation that highlighted both challenges and opportunities for Erie County homeowners, renters, and real estate professionals alike.

Through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program, we secured two major in-district awards that will strengthen our local food economy and expand access to fresh, healthy products right here in Erie County.

Here’s how these investments will benefit our community:

• Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network – $64,019 to build new cold-storage and processing stations, ensuring more residents have reliable access to fresh produce and nutritious foods in our neighborhoods
• Welch Foods Cooperative – $750,000 to modernize refrigeration systems and increase grape juice production, directly supporting 200 grower-owners and preserving family farms

These awards wouldn’t be possible without the leadership and partnership of Governor Josh Shapiro, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Their commitment to investing in Erie County helps our local businesses grow, creates good jobs, and builds a more resilient food system for every family.

Our office had a table at Erie Pride Fest yesterday, and the turnout was fantastic. It was a beautiful day as we connected with so many wonderful people from across our district. We shared information on state programs and services and answered questions to help you access the support you need.

On Friday, July 4th, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is hosting its annual “Fish for Free” day – meaning no fishing license is required for residents or non-residents anywhere in the Commonwealth.

Whether you’re casting in Lake Erie, a local creek, or any of our beautiful waterways, you can legally fish without a permit on Independence Day (all other regulations – size limits, creel limits, seasons – still apply).

For details on rules, bag limits, and safety guidelines, visit the PFBC’s official site: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/fishandboat.html

If you have an old flag that has seen better days—a faded, tattered, or torn piece of our patriotic history—we invite you to retire it responsibly.

Simply drop off your old flag at our office located at 3921 Buffalo Rd., or any of our satellite offices listed above, and we will ensure it is respectfully retired.

Please note that the last day to drop off your flag for proper retirement is July 8th. Your continued support in preserving our community’s heritage is greatly appreciated.

Please note that our district office will close at noon on Thursday, July 3rd, and remain closed on Friday, July 4th, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. We will resume regular business hours on Monday, July 7th, at 9:00 a.m.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Independence Day!

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