What are your top three legislative priorities in 2024?
Making childcare more affordable and accessible for Pennsylvania families, ensuring that economic development initiatives in my district are supported, and passing a 2024 Pennsylvania Farm Bill that builds on the investments we made in 2019 and further establishes Pennsylvania as a leader in agriculture.
What are the important issues facing your district?
Housing is a huge issue in my district right now. A lot of folks are struggling to achieve homeownership because of how competitive the market is, and rent has skyrocketed. While the level of poverty has declined, too many people find themselves working several jobs and accessing charitable food outlets in order to maintain a minimum standard of living.
What is your favorite vacation destination?
Anywhere! I’m always up for traveling to a new country or city.
What are the biggest challenges for grocers in your district?
Retaining staff, operating efficiently and profitably and stiff competition from other food outlets.
What are your biggest challenges and successes as a legislator?
I’ve been in the minority my entire career, so if I want to pass a bill, I must work with the other party. I’m thankful to have a lot of great colleagues on both sides of the aisle that I’ve been able to work with on various issues. Last year, a bill I sponsored to provide data on maternal morbidity passed unanimously and was signed into law. I have a bill I sponsored with Sen. Michele Brooks to improve WIC services in Pennsylvania that passed the Senate and is awaiting a vote in the House.
What is your favorite food or meal to cook?
I love to cook and experiment in the kitchen. I’m currently finessing my pizza-making skills (with limited success!).
What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy time with my family, especially my grandkids. I’m an avid gardener and grow vegetables as well as flowers. You can often find me in the library, too, searching for new historical fiction or a cookbook.
