We recently visited Iroquois High School for a meaningful conversation with student leaders about the issues that matter most to young people. Students raised thoughtful questions—from classroom cell-phone rules to youth access to vaping—and shared practical ideas for keeping our schools safe, healthy, and supportive.

Thank you to Mr. Fiorelli, Ms. Prather, and Ms. Laird for hosting us and making the discussion possible. Hearing directly from students helps shape the work I do for them and for our community.

While in Harrisburg yesterday, we welcomed John Dill of Marquette Savings Bank to the Capitol for a public hearing on my bill, House Bill 788. House Bill 788 would help Marquette and nearly 40 Pennsylvania thrift institutions by leveling the regulatory playing field with corporate banks and credit unions.

By creating fairer conditions for these community-based institutions, the bill would enable Marquette to reinvest more in our neighborhoods through job creation and increased philanthropic support.

Thank you to John Dill and everyone who participated in the hearing.

We’re pleased to share that Braden Beckes has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with Scouting America. Braden’s Eagle project — building a fruit stand for the Wesleyville Community Garden — is a wonderful example of service that benefits our community.

Please join us in congratulating Braden and his family on this significant accomplishment. Reaching Eagle Scout is a major milestone that reflects dedication, leadership, and a commitment to helping others.

Erie County’s America250PA kickoff took place at Penn State Behrend, marking the start of yearlong celebrations! This year marks the 250th anniversary of our nation, and Pennsylvania — where it all began — will be at the center of the celebration.

Erie’s history and contributions will be on full display throughout the year, with programming and activities highlighting our community’s stories and strengths. The events planned will celebrate our greatest asset: the people of Erie. I look forward to joining you at upcoming America250PA events and seeing how our community honors this milestone.

We wanted to share a bright moment from this week: Noah Coughlan, who is running across America along historic Route 20, passed right by our district office. A chilly but enthusiastic cheering section turned out to support him as he continued his journey.

It was inspiring to see neighbors rally behind someone taking on such an ambitious challenge. We wish Noah safe travels and continued success as he runs across the country!

With tax season officially underway, we’re encouraging eligible workers to take advantage of new state tax credits that deliver meaningful tax relief to those who need it most. 

Eligible taxpayers can now claim the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit (WPTC), created in the 2025-26 budget. Modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the WPTC can provide up to $805 in tax relief.

The credit is expected to deliver $193 million in tax savings to approximately 940,000 Pennsylvanians this year. Anyone who qualifies for the federal EITC automatically qualifies for the state credit, helping to put more money back into the pockets of working Pennsylvanians.

Visit pa.gov/wptc for more information and to check eligibility using an online calculator.

Additionally, residents can take advantage of Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit before the April 15, 2026, tax filing deadline. This credit, expanded under a recent law, provides financial relief to working families with child or dependent care expenses.

The credit matches 100% of the federal Child Care Tax Credit. You can find more information about the tax credit here.

Bob Merski

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358