I had much to report in this week's e-newsletter, on both the Capitol and local sides: What we're doing on the state level to protect your access to safe & crucial medication used in reproductive healthcare, and to protect children from the dangerous sides of AI; takeaways from my event on early childhood education; upcoming events this spring & summer, and plenty more: Link in bio!
The Marple Newtown Fourth of July Parade is ready to celebrate America250PA! Last night, Rep. Jennifer O'Mara, Rep. Greg Vitali and I were thrilled to present a check for $50,000 to support one of the region’s oldest 4th of July parades (I’ve been going since I was a little girl…so it’s old)!
Several months ago, Parade Vice Chair and Newtown resident Leigh Ann Coary visited my office to share all the great plans to celebrate and recognize America’s 250th and we talked about ways the state could provide support. Fast-forward and the outstanding work of the committee was recognized when selected as a grant recipient! I was thrilled to partner with my colleagues to bring these dollars home to our communities.
We’re getting our candy and our marching shoes ready! Congratulations to Leigh Ann and the entire parade committee!
Learn more about the best 4th of July parade ➡️➡️
Reminder that today is the last day to apply for a mail in ballot. This must be received by your county election office today May 12th by 5:00pm.
vote.pa.gov/ApplyMailBallot
đź“Ł We are relaunching our Student Voices program for the summer!
Are you a high schooler looking to engage in public service and the legislative process? This program led by my staff offers the opportunity to dive deeper into issues you care about, draft policies of your own, hear from experts in the field, and meet other civically minded students in the area!
🌟Apply here until 5/31: /StudentVoicesPA
Marie and I decided to get a jump on #nationalpoliceweek which begins May 11th by bringing some local delicious hoagie trays to the dedicated sworn officers serving the 168th!
These officers (and many others) are going to be working double overtime not only with their usual duties, but also helping to ensure the estimated 200,000 visitors to the PGA Championship in Newtown Square have a wonderful time. The beautiful 168th and our tremendous law enforcement officers from Newtown Township PD Delco Radnor Township Police Department and Villanova University will be in the spotlight next week! Thank you for your service to our communities today and every day!
Ever wonder what Pennsylvania looks like through a park ranger's eyes? This summer, visitPA and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are teaming up to give one lucky winner and their guest a one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes experience at one of the state's most stunning parks.
You'll spend a full day with people who know every trail, every hidden waterfall, every special spot you don't want to miss. You'll explore the way state park employees do, off the beaten path and into the wild spaces that make PA parks worth protecting. This won’t be your average park visit!
All the details on how to enter the contest and what the day will entail are here: /ranger/
Today is the last day to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program helps eligible households pay heating bills through cash grants and can also assist during energy emergencies. If you or someone you know may qualify, apply TODAY to get the support you need.
https://www.pa.gov/services/dhs/apply-for-the-low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
Artificial Intelligence (aka AI) has become part of our daily life. As with new technologies it has many good and practical applications which can enhance and improve many aspects of life. However, it can also be applied in ways that cause harm.
Last night, I attended a very thoughtful and informative program about AI and how this technology is causing harm to some of the most vulnerable, our children. Like so many things these days, AI is moving so fast it is hard to keep up. In this program we heard from child advocates, law enforcement professionals, tech experts, and legislators, including Madam Speaker Rep. Joanna McClinton and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Dave Sunday, and Senator Tracy Pennycuick, about the challenges of AI and work being done to put up guardrails and close the doors opened by AI which have caused harm.
Most powerful was hearing from the young victims, who have been dragged into this world through no fault of their own, and their supportive parents.
AI, when used for good, can be life altering. AI, when used for nefarious purposes, is also life altering. The dangers of AI need to be talked about, adults and children need to be educated, and we need to take action now to provide tools and guidance to prevent victimization and support those who have been victimized.
I am grateful to the Radnor and Lancaster parents and students who have bravely shared their story. We have a lot of work to do in this space and last night I had some really productive conversations with experts ready to sit down with me, educate me, and work with me to build on the work being of many of my legislative colleagues and local elected officials to make sure we are doing all we can to protect our children.
For those with children struggling to get their arms around balancing the positives technology brings to our lives while protecting them from the dangers access to technology can pose, I’d like to direct you to an organization called Protect Young Eyes.
The founder, Chris McKenna, spoke last night and he was impressive. Take a look at their site, it is very informative and I hope to bring them to the district soon.
