Combating Deepfake Sexual Exploitation

Jan. 03, 2024 /

I have introduced legislation in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to help combat deepfake sexual exploitation, which is the malicious manipulation of benign photos or videos to target victims online, including children. Unscrupulous actors are using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to create pornographic images of individuals without their knowledge or consent.

Warner Legislation Aims to Stop ‘Sanctuary City’ Designation

Jan. 03, 2024 /

HARRISBURG – As the nation faces record numbers of illegal immigrants crossing its borders, Rep. Ryan Warner (R-Fayette) has introduced legislation that would prevent municipalities and counties across the Commonwealth from designating themselves as “sanctuary cities.”

Owlett Legislation Would Require Geopolitical Risk Analysis for Public Fund Investments

Dec. 19, 2023 /

HARRISBURG – Noting substantial investor losses of those private funds invested in Russia and Belarus following the invasion of Ukraine, Rep. Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) said he will soon introduce legislation requiring an examination of geopolitical risk be conducted as part of the investment analysis when the state Treasury or Pennsylvania’s public pension funds invest in the financial assets in foreign countries.

Topper Bill to Increase Learning Flexibility Now Law

Dec. 18, 2023 /

HARRISBURG – A new law on the books gives Pennsylvania schools more flexibility when it comes to providing educational opportunities to students, said Republican Chairman of the House Education Committee, Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton), who sponsored the bill.

Governor Signs Porch Pirate Legislation

Dec. 15, 2023 /

HARRISBURG—The Senate’s version of legislation sponsored by Reps. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and KC Tomlinson (R-Bucks) has passed the General Assembly and was signed by the governor.

Fiscal Code Includes Enhancement of Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Mackenzie Championed

Dec. 15, 2023 /

HARRISBURG – The Fiscal Code bill signed into law this week by Gov. Josh Shapiro includes an enhancement of Pennsylvania’s Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, an issue that Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) has been advocating for since the introduction of his legislation on this topic back in February. The Fiscal Code is budget-related legislation that directs how state funding is to be spent.

Mehaffie Bill Opens Door on Budget Impasse

Dec. 15, 2023 /

HARRISBURG – State Rep. Tom Mehaffie (R-Dauphin) announced that the Fiscal Code, his House Bill 1300, passed both chambers and has been signed into law by the governor.

Marcell Drug Education Bill Goes to the Governor

Dec. 14, 2023 /

HARRISBURG- Legislation sponsored by Rep. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) to require the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) to engage in a public awareness campaign to educate the public about the dangers of human use of xylazine has been included in a Senate bill that passed the General Assembly and is going to the governor.