I have frequently spoken about Environmental Justice in these emails and at my annual environmental conferences. Well, this week we began moving some important legislative language that helps address Environmental Justice (EJ) considerations, this time in the buildout of data centers and the rate case reviews by the Public Utility Commission.

Here in PA, the Department of Environmental Protection looks at nearly 20 environmental and pollution factors and another dozen population factors to determine whether a community is an EJ community. These factors include environmental data points like air particulate matter, municipal waste sites, flood risk, and traffic density. Among the population indicators are factors like asthma and cancer rates, linguistic isolation, and unemployment figures.

This week we advanced a bill (HB 2184) that would require the PUC to consider whether a utility company’s rate increase request would create or exacerbate environmental or economic burdens in EJ communities. Similarly, we passed a data center controls bill that includes the expectation that a data center project located in an EJ community must define the measures they are planning to offset increased environmental exposures while also maintaining or positively impacting population characteristics. This could shape up as a major win with significant potential for responsible development precedence in PA.

As part of our summer internship with Representative Nelson's office, we had the opportunity to visit Harrisburg and experience a day at the Capitol during a busy legislative session. The trip gave us a firsthand look at state government in action and allowed us to learn more about the people, policies, and innovations shaping Pennsylvania.

Shortly after we arrived, we witnessed a food insecurity rally where Representative Joseph Ciresi spoke about the need for healthier and more affordable food options in schools. He highlighted how salads are often more expensive than bags of chips, making it harder for students to access nutritious meals. It was inspiring to see people advocating for issues that affect communities across Pennsylvania, and Representative Ciresi's passion for the issue resonated with us. Seeing elected officials speak so strongly about the challenges facing Pennsylvanians reminded us of the importance of public service and advocacy.

Soon afterward, we were guided to the House gallery, where we sat above the session floor and were recognized for our internship with Representative Nelson alongside interns from other legislative offices. We also had the opportunity to take pictures with Representative Nelson on the House floor and meet other representatives, including Malcolm Kenyatta and Tarik Khan. Being able to observe the legislative process from inside the Capitol made the experience especially memorable.

Another highlight of the trip was attending an autonomous vehicle event outside the Capitol. As we walked through the exhibits with Representative Nelson, we learned about emerging technologies and saw demonstrations of products such as DoorDash's autonomous delivery robot and Level 4 autonomous vehicles, which can operate independently without human intervention in certain conditions. Experiencing these innovations firsthand helped us better understand the potential impact of autonomous technology and the conversations taking place around its future in Pennsylvania.

Overall, our visit to Harrisburg was an exciting and educational experience that allowed us to see government in action, meet elected officials, and gain a deeper understanding of how decisions made in the Capitol impact communities across the Commonwealth!

-Zhanna & Isaiah

This week, I voted “yes” on historic steps to regulate data centers and their impact in Pennsylvania. This includes allowing municipalities to establish a 180-day pause on all data center applications while they develop the proper ordinances and protections for their community (HB 2496, 201-1); the creation of strict, enforceable guidelines to ensure that any developer seeking tax incentives for data center equipment in Pennsylvania meets strong standards that protect Pennsylvanians (HB 2650, 134-68); and eliminating the sales tax exemption for equipment purchased for use in data centers (HB 2198, 197-5).

I also voted "yes" on HB 2224 (202-0), legislation to help protect utility ratepayers by limiting excessive utility profits and ensuring utility rates are based on actual costs rather than inflated returns, helping make energy bills more affordable for Pennsylvania families. The bill required that the savings be passed on to the ratepayer, not for company profit.

As the federal government phases out production of the penny, I supported HB 2388 (187-15) to allow cash transactions with counties and local governments to be rounded to the nearest nickel. Honestly, I REALLY wanted to support an amendment to always round down to the nearest nickel, but some people I trust tell me that such a provision would have been disastrous.

Finally, I voted in favor HB 426 (198-4), legislation to help protect Pennsylvania's native pollinators by encouraging the use of insecticide-free native plants and flowers at state facilities. Dwindling habitats and pesticides negatively affect the populations of insects and pollinators and the plants they rely on for food and for laying eggs. By protecting our native species, we further promote biodiversity and pollination, making it possible for flowers and crops to reproduce, which are essential for human welfare.

Today marks the 11th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, which affirmed the constitutional right of same-sex couples to marry nationwide. Issued on June 26, 2015, the ruling required every state to both recognize and license marriages between same-sex couples, extending equal access to the rights, responsibilities, and protections that come with marriage.

As we celebrate Pride Month, I want to also recognize the advocates, families, and community members whose efforts helped advance equality under the law. The anniversary of Obergefell serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made and the importance of ensuring that every person is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.

This June, we celebrate love, inclusion, and the ongoing work of building communities where everyone belongs. ???‍??

Pennsylvania Medicaid recipients may see important changes beginning January 1, 2027, due to a new federal law enacted by Congress and signed by President Trump.

Some adults ages 19-64 will be required to renew their Medicaid coverage every six months instead of annually. In addition, certain adults without dependent children under age 14 will need to meet new work and community engagement requirements to maintain coverage.

To meet the requirement, individuals must complete at least 80 hours per month of work, volunteer service, job training, or education, or meet certain income thresholds. Failure to report compliance to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services could result in the loss of Medicaid coverage.

Many individuals are exempt from these requirements, including parents of young children, people with disabilities or special medical needs, pregnant and postpartum individuals, certain veterans, and others.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services will begin notifying affected recipients about these changes by September 2026. Residents are encouraged to update their contact information through COMPASS to ensure they receive important notices regarding their benefits.

SEPTA's new Regional Rail schedules will take effect on July 5, 2026.

The updated schedules are designed to improve reliability, simplify service patterns, and increase capacity across the system.

Riders can expect more consistent express service, additional service to Penn Medicine Station, and longer trains with more available seating.

Visit SEPTA's website or mobile app for updated schedules and trip-planning information.

Save the date and join our office for a FREE community screening of Ghostbusters at the Hiway Theater in Jenkintown. This event is part of our ongoing efforts to support local economic development and to celebrate the community institutions that help strengthen our neighborhoods. 

Independent theaters like the Hiway Theater serve as important cultural and economic anchors, attracting visitors, supporting nearby businesses, and creating opportunities for community engagement. 

Admission is FREE, but registration is required. 

Students who submitted their FAFSA® and completed the PA State Grant process may now be able to view a provisional PA State Grant award in GrantUs.

While final eligibility and award amounts are determined later, reviewing your provisional award can help give you an early look at anticipated financial aid amounts for the upcoming academic year.

Sign in and review your status at grantus.pheaa.org.

Meet Bacon ??

Bacon is a young Pit Bull Terrier with a big heart and an even bigger desire to find a family of his own. After being rescued from ACCT Philly, Bacon completed a board-and-train program and worked hard to learn new skills and set himself up for success. Now, he's waiting for someone to give him the chance he deserves.

Bacon is house-trained, loves people, and thrives with structure and routine. He enjoys learning, working alongside his person, and building strong bonds through training and enrichment. He's an energetic boy who would do best with an active adopter committed to providing exercise, consistency, and clear boundaries.

Bacon is looking for an adult-only home where he can be the only pet. While he may not be the right fit for every family, he has so much love, loyalty, and potential to offer the right person.

Could Bacon be the perfect addition to your family? Apply to adopt today!

Meet Pickles ??

Pickles is a 6-year-old cattle dog mix with a heart full of love and a loyal personality. He’s fully house-trained, great in the car, and happiest when he’s spending time with his people. If you’re looking for a devoted companion who loves to cuddle, Pickles may be the perfect match.

Pickles has low to medium energy and enjoys daily walks and playtime. He can live with another dog, especially a larger, easygoing canine companion, and he does well with older children. Because he can get excited and likes to explore, a securely fenced yard is required.

He’s a well-behaved boy who simply wants to be included in family life and shower his people with affection.

Could Pickles be the perfect addition to your family? Apply to adopt today!

Harrisburg Office

325 Irvis Office Building

PO Box 202154

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1079

Glenside Office

115 East Glenside Avenue

Suite 8
Glenside, PA 19038
(215) 572-5210

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