Home Heating Assistance Program Now Open

Nov. 06, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) began to accept applications on Nov. 1. Funded by the federal government but administered at the state level, LIHEAP provides cash and crisis grants to eligible participants who need some help in paying their heating costs during the winter.

Supporting Pennsylvania’s Helpers and Heroes

Oct. 29, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

With the declining number of volunteer emergency responders reaching critical levels, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives this week took up a “Helpers and Heroes” package of legislation designed to assist with recruiting and retention efforts of volunteer fire and ambulance companies across the state.

Protect Yourself Against the Flu

Oct. 21, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

The state Department of Health is urging residents to get a flu vaccine before the end of the month to protect against this potentially deadly illness. Last year, the Commonwealth reported 122,000 cases of flu and 258 deaths.

Medicare Open Enrollment Starts Oct. 15 - By State Rep. Tarah Toohil (R-Luzerne)

Oct. 15, 2019 /

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging is reminding Medicare beneficiaries that the open enrollment period starts on Tuesday, Oct. 15, and continues through Saturday, Dec. 7. During this time, you may make changes to your current Medicare coverage, as well as join, switch or drop Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Coverage plans.

Supporting Pennsylvania’s Helpers and Heroes

Sep. 30, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

Legislation is currently working its way through the House of Representatives that would support Pennsylvania’s fire and ambulance services. The bills are designed to address staffing and funding challenges facing these vital public safety organizations.

Help Stop the Spread of Spotted Lanternfly

Sep. 24, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

Fourteen counties in southeast Pennsylvania are currently included in the spotted lanternfly quarantine zone identified by the state Department of Agriculture. Officials are urging the public to help prevent the spread of the invasive insect by making sure they are not transporting the spotted lanternfly to other parts of the Commonwealth. Vigilance is especially important as the pest’s egg-laying season is now here.

PA ABLE Savings Program Shows Rapid Growth

Aug. 26, 2019 / Newspaper Columns

A state program designed to help people with qualified disabilities save for future disability-related expenses has more than doubled its assets in just one year, reflecting the high level of popularity and need for this savings option.

FCC Takes Next Step in Battle Against Robocalls, Spoofing

Aug. 14, 2019 /

Recognizing the frustration and potential danger posed by spam calls and spoofing, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced new rules that will ban malicious caller ID spoofing of text messages and foreign calls.

Supporting Foster and Adopted Children in PA

Aug. 05, 2019 /

During the current legislative session in the House of Representatives, the House Children and Youth Committee, on which I serve as vice-chair, has made it a priority to focus on policy initiatives that improve Pennsylvania’s foster and adoption systems. I believe these children deserve nothing less.

New Law Protects Pets Left in Hot Cars

Jul. 29, 2019 /

The recent heat wave can be a death sentence for an animal left unattended in a hot vehicle, where the temperature can reach triple digits in just a matter of minutes. Did you know that Pennsylvania has a new law to help prevent dogs and cats from suffering that kind of abuse?

Funding Pennsylvania’s Road and Bridge Projects

Jun. 24, 2019 /

I sometimes use this weekly column to answer your questions about matters relating to state government or any issue of concern. This week’s question deals with state funding for road and bridge projects.

Beware of Financial Aid Scams Targeting Students

Jun. 17, 2019 /

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency is warning students and borrowers to be wary of financial aid scams that could expose them to identity theft and significant financial loss.

Explore Summertime Fun in Pennsylvania

Jun. 10, 2019 /

Pennsylvania has thousands of places to visit for summertime fun, and the Happy Traveler Guide is a great tool to help you plan. The guide is available online at www.visitpa.com.