New Law Ends Triple Dipping by State Retirees

Legislation I supported was signed into law recently that ends the controversial practice of “triple dipping,” saving taxpayers more than $1 million a year. Act 75 of 2013 closes a legal loophole that allowed state government retirees who return to Commonwealth service for a temporary assignment to collect unemployment benefits when the assignment ends in addition to their salary and pension. This is another example of our continuing efforts to reform Pennsylvania’s unemployment compensation system.

I also voted in favor of legislation that passed in the House recently to create a confidential prescription drug monitoring database. House Bill 1694 should go a long way toward reducing crime and addiction by helping to spot the illegal use of prescription drugs, which is a growing problem in Pennsylvania. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. Learn more. 

Need some help paying your heating bill this winter? Eligible residents are encouraged to apply to the state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) starting Monday, Nov. 4. Cash grants are awarded based on household income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Please call my district office if you need assistance applying for a grant or if you have any questions. Learn more.