As we celebrated Earth Day, Mayor Daria Devlin and I planted the first of 41 American Elm trees on East 38th Street Boulevard. These new trees will replace those removed nearly a decade ago due to disease.

Working with PennDOT, DCNR, and the City of Erie, we were able to complete this important restoration.

I’m pleased to share that my bill, H.B. 2363, unanimously cleared the Pennsylvania House Game and Fisheries Committee. Thank you to the committee members for their bipartisan support.

This bill would update tagging, reporting, and transport rules for big-game and small-game to clarify compliance and strengthen conservation efforts. These changes are intended to make regulations easier to follow while supporting responsible wildlife management.

The bill now moves to the full House for consideration.

Applications for the 2026–2027 Student Teacher Stipend are now open. These stipends were funded again through bipartisan support, and they are intended to help young people pursuing a teaching career in Pennsylvania by providing financial assistance during their student teaching experience.

To apply, please visit: https://www.pheaa.org/funding-opportunities/pa-student-teacher-support-program. 

We’re excited to announce that our paid summer internship program is now accepting applications. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in state government, serve our community, and build skills for a career in public service.

If you’re eager to learn, contribute, and grow professionally, we encourage you to apply. For more information or to submit your application, please call our office at 814-455-6319 or email your resume to Repmerski@pahouse.net.

The Wesleyville Borough Spaghetti Dinner to support Wesleyville Community Day was a wonderful success — a great meal for a great cause. Thank you to everyone who came out to enjoy the event and support our community.

Your participation helps make Community Day possible and strengthens the connections that make Wesleyville special.

The Spirit of Civility Awards recently brought our community together to celebrate Erieites who are making a real difference. The evening was uplifting and inspiring — a reminder that kindness, respect, and service still shine brightest in our community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, nominated, or supported the event. Congratulations to all of the award winners for their dedication and positive impact. Your work strengthens our neighborhoods and sets a powerful example for others.

As students and families prepare for the new school year this fall, I want to remind Pennsylvania National Guard members that you or your family may be eligible for financial assistance through the Military Family Education Program and the Education Assistance Program.

These programs give back to Guard members and honor their service by helping to offset the cost of higher education.

Learn more and check eligibility:

MFEP: https://www.pa.ng.mil/education/Military-Family-Education-Program/

EAP: https://www.pa.ng.mil/education/Education-Assistance-Program/

The deadline to register to vote in the May 19 primary is less than two weeks away. If you are not yet registered, please complete your registration by Monday, May 4 to ensure your voice is heard.

If you prefer to vote by mail, request a mail-in or absentee ballot by May 12. 

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