Harkins sworn in to eighth term representing state’s 1st Legislative District

HARRISBURG, Jan. 5 – State Rep. Pat Harkins, D-Erie, was sworn in today at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, beginning his eighth term representing Pennsylvania’s 1st Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Reaffirming his commitment to the Erie community, Harkins said his top priority will be helping residents and business owners overcome the multiple challenges created by the pandemic.

“I am deeply committed to fighting for our district and ensuring that residents and small business owners get the funding they need to make it through this period,” Harkins said. “COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on our community, threatening the survival of mom-and-pop businesses, destroying jobs and making it hard for families to meet basic living expenses.

“My No. 1 priority in the year ahead will be bringing more money back to our district so we can begin to see meaningful recovery. At the same time, I will be working to expand access to job opportunities, affordable housing, and the quality health care and public education our residents deserve.

“Even as the pandemic made life so difficult, Erie residents responded with strength and generosity. I am so proud to represent our district, and I plan to do everything in my power to help us build back quickly and return to a healthy local economy.”

Harkins said his office – which is operating by appointment only during the pandemic – can help with a wide variety of state-related services, including prescription drug assistance, children’s insurance, unemployment compensation, driver and vehicle services, home heating and property tax/rent rebate applications, veterans’ issues and more. Residents should call the office at 814-459-1949 for assistance by phone or to schedule an appointment.

More information is available by visiting RepHarkins.com.

Harkins was first elected in 2006 and took office at the start of the 2007-08 session.