A new public-private partnership will expand access to fresh food across Erie and Northwest Pennsylvania. INTAG Systems is partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania to purchase surplus fresh produce for distribution throughout our region. Second Harvest will use PASS dollars to buy the produce, helping ensure nutritious food reaches families, seniors, and neighbors in need.

This collaboration leverages local resources and private investment to strengthen our food security network, reduce waste, and get healthy fruits and vegetables into the hands of people who need them most. We’re always proud to support efforts that prioritize people and build stronger, healthier communities.

Last week we joined Rep. Harkins, the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority, the Regional Science Consortium, Keep America Beautiful, the Erie County Department of Health, and other local partners to recycle plastic winter boat tarps.

Recycling these tarps helps prevent microplastics from entering our swimming and drinking water by keeping this material out of the waste stream and ensuring it is handled responsibly.

The Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking Advocacy Work Group visited the Pennsylvania Capitol to advocate for stronger trafficking laws. I was glad to meet with advocates and survivors and hear firsthand about the changes they are seeking.

From day one in the House, I have pushed for the Trafficking Hotline number to be posted at all rest stops along our interstate system so travelers and victims can quickly find help. Governor Wolf agreed, and the hotline number has now been posted across the Commonwealth. Our office has also been an active member of the Erie Human Trafficking Coalition, working with local partners to raise awareness, improve prevention, and connect survivors with services.

While in Harrisburg during a busy session week, I voted YES on H.B. 1678, which would impose a tax on digital advertising receipts and dedicate that revenue to a restricted Property Tax Relief account. The funds would be used for targeted homestead rebates and other property tax relief measures aimed specifically at eligible seniors.

This approach asks large digital advertising companies to contribute their fair share, creates a sustainable funding source to help prevent property tax increases for older residents, and focuses relief where it’s needed most—so seniors can remain in their homes and maintain financial stability. I will always stand up for seniors and continue fighting to prevent property tax hikes that threaten their security and independence. 

We’re pleased to share great news for seniors in Erie: The John F. Kennedy Center has been awarded $106,275 in state Senior Community Center grant funding for capital improvements and renovations.

This investment will help update the facility, improve safety and accessibility, and ensure the center remains a welcoming place where older adults can access programs, meals, social activities, and vital services. These upgrades will make it easier for seniors to stay connected, healthy, and engaged in our community.

The U.S. Brig Niagara is officially on her way home! On Saturday, the Commonwealth’s flagship cast off her lines at Bristol Marine’s Sample’s Shipyard, marking the successful completion of a year-long restoration and refit. The vessel is currently navigating a roughly 2,000-nautical-mile transit via the North Atlantic Ocean and the St. Lawrence Seaway on her journey home.

She is scheduled to arrive at her homeport at the Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara for a homecoming celebration July 2–5, perfectly timed to kick off Erie’s Independence Day weekend. This historic return is a proud moment for our community and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our maritime heritage.

Thanks to a joint effort by the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the American Legion, two veteran parking spaces have been added to every Turnpike service plaza.

It’s a small but meaningful way to honor those who served and to make travel more convenient. If you are a veteran or know one who travels the Turnpike, please spread the word.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has begun distributing $103 million in SUN Bucks to help families put fresh food on the table while school is out. About 860,000 children who are automatically eligible should start receiving benefits this week.

If your family did not receive SUN Bucks last year, please check the PA DHS Eligibility Navigator to see whether you are automatically eligible or need to apply.

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