Data Center Bills Pass in the House and more!

Rep. Jessica Benham April 17, 2026 | 9:34 AM

Data Center Bills, Other Legislation Passes in Harrisburg

I had a busy week in Harrisburg, supporting several passing bills on topics important to everyday Pennsylvanians.

I was proud to support data center legislation, including H.B. 2150, which would require data centers to file annual reports with the state detailing energy and water consumption for the previous calendar year, including monthly data. I also voted for H.B. 2151, which directs the Center for Local Government Services to develop a model zoning ordinance for data center proposals.

While we are limited at the state level in our ability to constrain the expansion of data centers, these bills will go a long way toward minimizing any potential harms. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act on these bills. There are other pieces of legislation further regulating data centers that I hope to see move through the House soon as well.

I also voted for bills that would increase the availability of diaper-changing stations and ensure fairness in construction contracts, among other legislation. Stay subscribed to my weekly emails to follow along in Harrisburg, especially as we head into budget season!

VIP Grant Funding for Violence Prevention Initiatives

This week, two violence prevention initiatives in my district received funding from the FY 2025-26 Violence Intervention & Prevention grant.

A total of $500,000 in VIP grant funding will go toward expanding the Center for Victims, a community-based organization providing violence intervention, crisis response, and youth engagement services in Allegheny County. The project aims to reduce the impact of community violence by maintaining an ongoing presence and providing trauma-informed crisis response in high-crime neighborhoods.

Another $291,500 in funding will go to the Will Allen Foundation to strengthen and expand after-school and summer programming. The foundation provides programs designed to keep youth safe, supported, and engaged during high-risk hours.

I’m grateful to the state for this funding given to programs that are giving our communities stability and a sense of belonging. To learn more about VIP grants and other violence prevention initiatives, visit the Commission on Crime and Delinquency website at pa.gov/agencies/pccd.

Register to Vote Today!

Have you made a plan to vote in the May 19 Primary Election? It’s not too late!

The final day to register to vote is May 4, and you can register online at vote.pa.gov/register. The final day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is May 12, and you can apply at vote.pa.gov/ApplyMailBallot. A mail-in ballot is still a safe, secure and surefire way to make sure your voice is heard!

Register to vote before May 4

13th Annual Disability & Mental Health Summit

I’ll be hosting this one-of-a-kind event alongside Rep. Emily Kinkead and Rep. Jen Mazzocco, featuring a large resource fair, breakout sessions throughout the day, a comprehensive legislative panel, and more. A special thanks to Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Kevin Dougherty, who will be giving a keynote presentation on autism and the courts.

Additionally, professionals like educators and social workers can earn credits by attending! You can RSVP at this link.

LIHEAP Period Extended Until May 8

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application period for 2025–26 has been extended until May 8! Whether you rent or own your home, you could receive a cash grant ranging from $200 to $1,000, based on your household size, income, and fuel type. This grant does not have to be repaid.

To find out if you qualify and for help applying, click here or contact my office.

My Office is Here to Help You

Remember, my staff and I are here to help you however we can. Don’t hesitate to reach out at RepBenham@pahouse.net, call 412-881-4208, or stop by our office located at 2600 Brownsville Road.