Feb. 20 Email: Advocating for paid family leave in the nation’s Capitol

Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara February 21, 2026

PA Representative Jennifer O'Mara's banner image

Dear Neighbor,

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., and talk with our federal representatives about the need for paid family leave. It’s an issue I’ve been championing in the PA General Assembly because working parents too often have to make difficult choices between their own health, raising their family, and paying the bills.

While in our nation's Capitol, I met with Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan and discussed the federal, bipartisan efforts to pass paid family leave. I was also honored to speak at a congressional briefing hosted by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro on paid leave and the work we’re doing here in Pennsylvania. Finally, I ended the day by speaking at the reception hosted by Paid Leave for All to celebrate the anniversary of the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, which provides unpaid leave up to 12 weeks for family and medical reasons.

But now it’s time to pass paid leave—more than a dozen states have already enacted it—and I will keep fighting for it for Pennsylvania families.

Addressing the high cost of housing

The price of housing here in Delco is making it harder than ever for people to afford a place to call home. I’m proud to fight alongside Gov. Shapiro so you can have your piece of the American Dream that’s perfect for you and your family.

The Housing Action Plan cuts red tape so more housing can be built and existing housing can be revitalized so everyone has a chance to afford their first home. The plan puts you and your neighbors first – not the private equity firms buying up vacant properties as investments or short-term rentals. The plan helps homeowners and renters address the cost of living.

It includes investing in infrastructure, schools, jobs, and everything else we need to keep Delco a great place to live, work, and raise a family. You can learn more about the plan here.

Get help with your Property Tax/Rent Rebate application

Senator Kearney and I want to make sure it’s easy for eligible seniors to get their rebates from the state’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. We’re hosting a Property Tax/Rent Rebate event next month in partnership with Media Fellowship House. It will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 5 at Media Fellowship House, 302 S. Jackson St., Media. Staff will be on hand to assist with your application, answer any questions you may have, and file your application with the state. Learn about income guidelines and other program details here.

Pre-registration for our event is required – call my office at 610-544-9878 to sign up!

PennDOT asks for input on traffic safety

The PA Department of Transportation is seeking input from Pennsylvanians on traffic safety and driving behaviors through an online survey that will be available through February 28. The survey will help inform PennDOT on how the Shapiro Administration can continue to improve traffic safety – and save lives – across the state. The survey should take only five minutes to complete.

For more information on PennDOT's highway safety efforts, visit: www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Media

Tomorrow at 2 p.m., Media will celebrate the Lunar New Year on State Street with its annual Lion Dance, welcoming the Year of the Horse. The event will feature a special performance by the renowned Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy dancers!

Drop off children’s books at my office

My office is participating in a local children’s book drive to help put books in the hands of Delco children. We are a drop-off site for the Delco Book Bank’s Easter Basket & Summer Reading Book Drives. So feel welcome to drop off new or gently used children’s books at my office!

Free help during Medicare Advantage open enrollment

The state Department of Aging is reminding older adults that the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is underway. Running through March 31, this period allows beneficiaries to switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to original Medicare.

The Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight, or PA MEDI, program offers free, unbiased counseling to help seniors make informed health insurance decisions. This initiative ensures that older adults can optimize their cost savings and access to health care.

Find local program phone numbers and a statewide helpline by clicking here.

Applications open for home heating help

Applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program are open. Through the program, you can apply for a cash grant to help pay your heating bill—from $200 to $1,000 based on your household size, income, and fuel type.

For more information, click here. You can also contact my office if you need help applying for LIHEAP or need help with any utility-related issues.