Celebrating Trooper Pierce’s 20 Years of Service, Volunteer Opportunities at PA Parks, How to Stay One Step Ahead of Scammers, and more!

Rep. Robert Merski April 2, 2026

Thank You for Your Service, Trooper Pierce

Please join me in congratulating Trooper Pierce on his retirement from the Pennsylvania State Police after 20 years of dedicated service to the people of the Commonwealth.

For two decades, Trooper Pierce answered the call to protect and serve our communities. His commitment to public safety, professionalism, and steady presence helped keep families safe and strengthened trust between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve. We owe him our gratitude for the sacrifices he and his family have made in service to all of us.

Putting More Money Back in Your Pocket

Working families deserve relief that helps with everyday costs. That’s why I voted for measures that put more money back into Pennsylvanians’ pockets to help with groceries, gas, housing, and prescription costs so families can keep more of what they earn.

These actions provide targeted tax relief, direct credits and rebates, and lower utility and medicine costs—resulting in more take-home pay, smaller monthly bills, and greater stability for seniors, veterans, and families.

Earn Rewards While Helping Our Parks

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has launched a streamlined Conservation Volunteer system to connect more Pennsylvanians with service opportunities in our state parks and forests.

This modern sign-up makes it easier to volunteer for trail work, campground support, tree planting, and more — and volunteers earn rewards as they reach service milestones.

Learn more and sign up today: https://dcnrvolunteers.pa.gov/volunteer-faq/.

Thank You Harborcreek Fire Department

Thank you to the Harborcreek Fire Department for a wonderful breakfast with the Easter Bunny and a fun egg hunt. It was great to see families come together and support the volunteers who are always there when we need them.

Our volunteer firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our community, and it’s important that we support their fundraising efforts so they have the resources they need. My office has helped secure more than $1 million in equipment for volunteer fire companies across the district to ensure our first responders are prepared and protected.

Help Shape Policy for Women Across the Commonwealth

Women across the Commonwealth — your voice matters. The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women is compiling a State of the Woman Report and wants to hear from you.

Take this 20-minute survey to share your experiences, priorities, and challenges and help shape policies that affect women across Pennsylvania.

Be on Guard Against Scams

I want to alert you to a recent scam targeting residents across our area. We’ve seen an uptick in text messages from scammers impersonating PennDOT that threaten suspension of driving and vehicle registration privileges unless a “fine” is paid via a link in the message.

These messages are NOT from PennDOT. If you receive one, please delete it immediately and do not click any links or provide any personal information. PennDOT does not send texts about traffic violations or fines — official notices are sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

Additionally, please be aware of another common scam: callers demanding payment with gift cards. Gift cards are for gifts, not for payments. If someone calls asking you to pay with gift cards, hang up immediately, do not share card numbers or scratch-off codes, and never wire money or provide personal information. Report the call at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Trout Season Kicks Off Saturday

Trout season begins this Saturday, April 4!

If you plan to fish, please purchase any required licenses and permits and prepare your gear. For details, regulations, and online purchases, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or use the FishBoatPA mobile app.

Happy Easter!

Wishing you and your family a peaceful and joyful Easter weekend. In observance of Good Friday and Easter, my district office will be closed on Friday and Monday so our staff may spend time with loved ones and reflect.

We will resume regular hours on Tuesday. If you need assistance while the office is closed, please leave a message or email us and a member of our team will respond as soon as we return.