By Rep. Abney

Hello, Northsiders! I hope everyone who celebrated had a safe and enjoyable Easter and Passover. I would like to talk to you about the work I’ve been doing in Harrisburg, including legislation for all Pennsylvanians.

I was so happy to have Act 118 of 2024, my bill to exclude savings bond earnings of seniors when determining eligibility for state prescription programs, ceremonially signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro. Keeping our seniors connected to the medications they need is, I hope, the first of many measures I will get across the finishing line!

I’ve authored new legislation that would require landlords, upon request, to share utility bills with tenants, as I’ve heard from neighbors that such transparency does not always take place. Ensuring tenants pay the same amount shown on their utility bill not only would keep more money in their pockets, but it would minimize disputes between both parties.

I’ve also introduced a bill that would require the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts to collect and compile data on the race and ethnicity of defendants in criminal cases.

A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty and deserves to be treated equally and fairly under the law. My bill would help provide a clearer picture of the people awaiting trial in Pennsylvania and keep these basic rights in place.

Additionally, I was proud to stand with my fellow social workers at the state Capitol and advocate for my legislation that would make it easier for workers to assist their peers across state lines and without interruption. It’s time we help and support the social workers who have done so much to improve the lives of so many.

Back at home, I joined Mayor Ed Gainey, state Sen. Wayne Fontana, Councilman Bobby Wilson, and others to break ground on what will be the new Allegheny Riverfront Park. This work, connecting the park to Allegheny Landing, is a tremendous opportunity for me as a state representative for further connection.

I’m proud to help connect state dollars with a project like this one, which will benefit many walks of life across the Steel City.

Have a safe and fun Memorial Day, and I’ll talk to you all again in June!