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In this Update:
A Vision for Redevelopment at Erie Coke Site
I toured the former Erie Coke property with a delegation of federal, state, and local leaders. The remediation of this site will be a massive undertaking, requiring years of work and significant investment from both state and federal partners. Even with the challenges ahead, I believe this land represents a tremendous opportunity for our community. With the right vision and collaboration, we can transform the Erie Coke site into a source of growth and renewal for Erie and it’s an opportunity we must seize. Welcoming Students Back to School
My wife Peggy and I had such a great time this morning joining Erie’s Public Schools to welcome students back for their first day at McKinley Elementary, the “Home of the Mariners.” The first day of school is always filled with excitement, and it was wonderful to see so many smiles as the kids headed into the building. We’re wishing all the students, teachers, and staff across our community a safe, happy, and successful school year ahead. Kicking Off the Erie County Fair in Wattsburg
I had the honor of helping kick off the Erie County Fair in Wattsburg with the ribbon cutting and the traditional milk toast. It’s always a wonderful way to celebrate our strong agricultural roots and the hardworking families who keep this tradition alive. If you have the chance, be sure to stop by the fair this week to enjoy the festivities and show support for our local agricultural community. Addressing Abandoned Wells in Erie County
I joined the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection in Millcreek Township as they worked to plug an abandoned natural gas well. These abandoned and orphan wells can leak methane, contaminate groundwater, and pose safety risks if left untreated. With hundreds of these wells across Erie County, addressing this issue is critical to protecting both our environment and our communities. I will continue working with DEP and local partners to ensure this important work moves forward. How I Can Help
If you or someone you know is having trouble accessing state programs or services, or if you have questions about a law or government program and aren’t sure where to turn, my team and I are here to help. We can guide you through the process, connect you with the right resources, and provide support on a wide range of issues to make things easier for you. Improving Health Care
The Senate approved several measures this year to improve the delivery of health care in our communities. Among the new laws we passed was a measure establishing a statewide stroke registry to deliver vital information to EMS providers and hospitals, ensuring the best treatment possible. Other laws aim to reduce overdose deaths by incorporating real-time reporting by EMS providers into the statewide overdose mapping system, and giving EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of naloxone at overdose scenes, placing this lifesaving medication in the hands of a caregiver or loved one. Critical measures passed by the Senate and awaiting action in the House of Representatives include bills to strengthen Pennsylvania’s no-cost breast cancer screening law by ensuring diagnostic imaging is fully covered, and preserving prescription drug coverage for more than 10,000 seniors. You can review other measures we passed to improve health care and address other subjects here. New Law Streamlines Fishing Licenses for Disabled Veterans
A new law we passed earlier this year is now in effect removing the annual fishing license fee and application for veterans with 100% disability. Previously, only those disabled veterans with a 100% permanent disability determination from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs could receive free lifetime fishing licenses. Disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination also receive free licenses but must apply for them on an annual basis. Act 21 of 2025 takes away the annual fee and application part of the process and allows all disabled veterans with a 100% disability determination, whether or not it is a permanent determination, to purchase free lifetime fishing licenses. 2026-27 PA Student Aid Guide Available
For parents and students planning for college, the new Student Aid Guide from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) provides a complete overview of the financial aid process. The guide can help you:
For more help planning for college, check out PHEAA webinars and EducationPlanner.org. Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law
Students are heading back to class, so we all need to be on the lookout for children around school buses and bus stops. Some reminders about Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law:
School districts are permitted to install automated camera systems on buses to enforce the law. You can find more information about the law and penalties, and safety tips for children, here. Happy Labor Day
Labor Day is a time to celebrate the workers who make our communities thrive while providing for their families. No matter what your vocation or whether you’re an active employee or a retiree, I hope you enter this last stretch of summer with a wonderful holiday weekend.
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