HARRISBURG, July 12 -- State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Eddie Day Pashinski today hosted a public hearing to discuss the need for drastic reforms to drive down the costs of prescription drugs for the well-being of Pennsylvanians who rely on medications for an improved quality of life. The hearing, a meeting of the Policy Committee’s Subcommittee on Progressive Policies for Working People, included testimony on how prescription drug pricing is calculated, some of the cost drivers and legislative action needed to regulate pricing. Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, chair of the subcommittee, and legislators from across the state joined both in person and online for the discussion. Sean Zmenkowski, a constituent services advisor for Rep. Kinkead, shared his experience as a type one diabetic reliant on insulin to survive and the career choices he has had to make in order to maintain access to life-sustaining medication. “Far too many Pennsylvanians have to make painful choices regarding life-saving medications – going without or rationing their medicine – either option is inexcusable,” said state Rep. Emily Kinkead, D-Allegheny. “I remain committed to working with my colleagues to come up with solutions, including a prescription drug importation program, to ensure the prescription drugs our residents need are accessible and affordable. It’s clear we need long-term solutions to help our residents, and we can make it happen.” Read more

Read more

HARRISBURG, June 14 – State Rep. Maureen Madden, D-Monroe, has been selected to serve as chairwoman of the Northeast Democratic Delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the remainder of 2021-22 legislative term. Madden took over the chair position when delegation chairman Marty Flynn, D-Lackawanna, was sworn in as a state senator last week. State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh was appointed to serve the remainder of Madden’s unexpired term as vice-chairwoman. Both Madden and McNeill were appointed by the delegation’s 14-member board. Madden, who has now gained seniority as chairwoman, said she is dedicated to move the delegation forward on many issues important to the Northeast. “The Northeast Delegation will be tackling important issues that matter to everyone, such as equity in education, social programs, senior services, diversity, gun reform, equal pay, voting rights, health care and workplace safety regulations,” Madden said. “We must continue to work together on both sides of the aisle and mend our divisions so we can provide unified, effective change for the people of Pennsylvania.” McNeill said she will be at the forefront of debates on issues that affect her constituency and the delegation. “I t’s an honor that my colleagues have selected and entrusted me with the responsibilities of Read more

State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh, announced today that a total of $101,962.25 will be awarded to local volunteer fire and emergency medical services companies. Read more

It is no secret that I was new to politics when I was sworn into office in April of 2019. As a registered nurse and a mother of four, I am used to navigating through everyday chaos. This last year we have all had to find a way to navigate through the deadliest pandemic in 100 years, and it has not been easy.  Read more

As budget talks continue in Harrisburg, state Reps. Mike Schlossberg and Jeanne McNeill, both D-Lehigh, are hopeful that this week’s negotiations and debate will also involve thoughtful consideration of H.B. 1690, legislation that would address the shortage of mental health services in underserved areas. Read more

Seeking a bipartisan solution to a growing need, state Reps. Mike Schlossberg and Jeanne McNeill, both D-Lehigh, have joined with state Reps. Rosemary M. Brown, R-Monroe/Pike, and Jason Ortitay, R-Washington/Allegheny, to introduce legislation aimed at addressing the shortage of mental health services in underserved areas. Read more

As budget talks continue in Harrisburg, state Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh, said she is hopeful several pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening animal protection laws will find passage. Read more

While similar bills have been introduced in previous legislative sessions, the Sanchez/Schlossberg legislation would extend beyond the “gay” and “trans” terminology to include all members of this marginalized community by prohibiting the court system from allowing a defense of this nature in consideration of serious provocation or insanity. Read more