Round-Up: House Dems Working for You
Some House Democrats have made the news recently for working to make a better Pennsylvania. See below on how they have been a voice for their constituents.
Property Taxes
Last week Representatives Brandon Neuman (Washington) and Jesse White (Allegheny/Beaver/Washington) were appointed to serve on statewide reassessment task forces that are focused on fixing the process of conducting property reassessments. Both of these task forces will strive to collect accurate information while making recommendations that could save taxpayers money.
Disaster Relief
Representatives Phyllis Mundy (Luzerne), Gerald Mullery (Luzerne), and other House Democrats unveiled a package of bills this week that, if enacted, could bring relief to those affected by current and future natural disasters. Rep. Mundy was quoted as saying, “This legislation would throw a lifeline to people who need assistance quickly. We as a commonwealth should do everything we can to assist them.” The bills include providing funds for low interest loans and grants, as well as amending the state Constitution to allow the legislature to provide special aid after the declaration of an emergency.
Health Care
On Wednesday, Representative Bryan Barbin (Cambria) as well as other Democratic legislators, called on the governor to help break the stalemate between UPMC and Highmark Inc. Earlier in the year, UPMC backed out of talks with Highmark over new rates. If no contract can be agreed upon before June 30 of next year, Highmark’s members, which total more than 3 million in the Pittsburgh area alone, could pay full price to see UPMC doctors. In response to this, Rep. Barbin was quoted as saying, “You can’t say that 3 million people just aren’t allowed to use UPMC facilities or see UPMC doctors. It’s wrong, and somebody has to do something.”
Environment
Representative Frank Burns (Cambria/Somerset) attended a ribbon cutting ceremony that unveiled the Swigle Mountain Road Water Project, which will provide residents and businesses in Jackson Township with clean water. After previously having to haul water to their houses, residents can now enjoy the benefits of a tank that holds close to 300,000 gallons. Rep. Burns cited this as a possibility for growth and development in the area.