Governor Josh Shapiro gave his budget address this week, marking the official start of the legislative budget season. This address outlines what he would like to see included in the 2025/2026 budget, and it acts as the General Assembly’s blueprint as we begin fiscal negotiations.
Following his address, the Appropriations Committee begins three weeks of intense budget hearings. During these hearings, committee members meet with every state department to hear presentations regarding issues they’re facing and the funding they need to resolve them. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I look forward to engaging in these critical discussions and ensuring our state’s budget reflects the needs of our communities. Some of the main issues I’ll be advocating for in this year’s spending plan include equitable education funding, property tax reform and increases for statewide public transit.
I'll keep you updated on any budget developments as we move forward.
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025 NATIONAL THEME:
AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR
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The 2025 Black History Month theme, "African Americans and Labor," is a powerful reflection on the pivotal role that the hard work of African Americans has played in shaping our country’s history. This theme underscores the diverse and significant ways in which labor—whether voluntary or involuntary, skilled or unskilled—has been at the core of the Black American experience. From the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans, which was foundational to the economic systems of this country, to the prosperous establishment of “Black Wall Street,” which was a demonstration of the brilliance and resilient abilities of black corporate collaboration, this theme highlights how work has been central to both survival and empowerment.
Virtual Events
Registration will be required for each event- 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 12: Black Wealth and Financial Literacy:
Building a Stronger Future (Register)
- Wednesday, February 19: Black Women in Leadership (Register)
In-Person Event
Celebrate African Americans' rich culture in the form of performing arts, visual art, and delicious food. Registration is not required to attend.
Lunch will be served after the program.
Wednesday, February 26
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
1430 DeKalb Street, Community Room, 1st floor
Norristown, PA 19401
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FREE SHREDDING AND E-WASTE EVENT
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Join my office along with the offices of Rep. Melissa Cerrato and Rep. Liz Hanbidge for a free document shredding and electronics recycling event! Empty your garage and protect your identity at the same time. We ask that you limit your shredding items to 3 brown paper bags. Our offices will be collecting non-perishable food items for local food banks at this event. See the flyer below for details.
**We cannot accept monitors, TV’s or any products that contain freon.**
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APPLY FOR YOUR PROPERTY TAX/RENT REBATE TODAY
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Applications are now open for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. This program benefits older adults and Pennsylvanians with disabilities by providing a portion of money back on property taxes or rent paid in the prior year.
The income cap was recently raised to $46,520 (excluding half of Social Security), meaning more Pennsylvanians qualify than in previous years.
It’s quick and easy to apply online at https://pa.gov/PTRR, but my district office can also provide paper applications to anyone interested.
If you have any questions about the application process, feel free to call my office at (215) 517-6800.
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$10K GRANT SECURED FOR ANNUAL ROCKLEDGE FIREWORKS
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Congratulations to the Rockledge 4th of July Parade Association for being awarded a $10K America250PA grant to support the community’s annual fireworks show! ?? This funding will help keep this beloved tradition shining bold and bright in 2025.
Learn more: https://www.america250pa.org/Semiquin_Grants
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AMERICA250PA MONTGOMERY COUNTY: GET INVOLVED!
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On July 4, 2026, America will celebrate a huge anniversary: our 250th birthday. This historic milestone is an opportunity to celebrate our nation's past and look ahead toward the future.
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To prepare for the festivities, Montgomery County is now accepting applications to serve on our America250 Commission. This commission will offer valuable perspectives and insights as they work to plan America250 events and celebrations.
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SHAPIRO ADMINISTRATION INVITES LGBTQ YOUTH TO VIRTUAL LISTENING SESSION
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????? Pennsylvania LGBTQ+ youth - share your voices with the governor’s office ?????
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The Governor’s Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs is hosting virtual LGBTQ Youth Listening Sessions on Tuesday, March 11, and Wednesday, March 19, from 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. via Zoom to discuss expanding protections for LGBTQ youth. Middle and high school students across PA are invited to participate.
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HELP APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID
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The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, the organization that administers the state college grant and loan programs, is co-hosting a free virtual workshop to help college-bound students and their families complete the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) in honor of Financial Aid Awareness Month this February.
To participate, all students and contributors (e.g., parents or spouses) must create a StudentAid.gov Account (FSA ID) at least four days prior to the event. You can do this at https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch. Be sure to review this link for a list of the information you'll need to gather.
Event Details:
FAFSA Completion Workshop – Virtual
Get one-on-one assistance from PHEAA financial aid experts to complete the 2025-26 FAFSA.
Date: Wednesday, February 19
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Note: Registration is required, and space is limited. Book your 30-minute session here.
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PA TECHNOLOGY CHAMPIONS GUIDES
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TechOwl has released a series of Technology Guides on topics such as: Internet Safety, My First Cell Phone, and Funding Technology. The guides were created by assistive technology users and are in an easy-to-read format, making them ideal for all.
These guides, which are made possible by Temple University, are a resource to make technology accessible to everyone.
AT Champions Technology Guides – TechOWL
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UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
311 Irvis Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-7619
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District Office
1175 Old York Rd.
Abington, PA 19001
(215) 517-6800
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