This Week in Harrisburg

My Legislation on the Move

I am pleased to report that legislation I have sponsored was passed by the House Education Committee this week. House Bill 2049 would provide civil immunity to school bus drivers who administer epinephrine auto-injectors, or epi-pens, to students who experience an allergic reaction. Under the legislation, a driver must first complete a training program developed by the state Department of Health and comply with school district policy to be qualified to use the epi-pen. My bill will next be considered by the full House. Learn more.
 
Protecting Electric Customers 

Remember those skyrocketing electric bills from a few months ago that shocked customers with variable rate plans? This week, the House Consumer Affairs Committee passed legislation which would limit those increases to no more than 30 percent per billing cycle. House Bill 2104 would also require switching requests to be completed within five business days; outline language all electric supplier contracts must contain to clearly explain terms; and give the Public Utility Commission specific authority to investigate rate complaints. The measure will next be considered by the full House. 
   
Focusing on Pennsylvanians in Poverty 

This week, the House Majority Policy Committee unveiled its preliminary report aimed at combating poverty statewide. With roughly 1.5 million people, or 12 percent of the population living in poverty, it is essential to address this issue in realistic terms.

The report concludes that to eliminate poverty, focus must be on five areas: Outcomes that Matter, Life Skills 101, Benefits that Work, The Essentials and Educating through Opportunity. Lawmakers are hopeful this study will lead to policy reform in the near future. Read the report here. 
  
Shred your Documents at No Cost

In my continuing effort to combat identity theft in the Lehigh Valley, I’m holding another free paper shredding event on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to noon. The service will be available outside my district office, located in Village Center, 21 N. Main St. in Coopersburg. Learn more.