By Rep. Abney

Hello, Northsiders! I would like to share with you some information about upcoming hearings that will shape this year’s state budget and the many state resources available to you.

First, however, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of my House Democratic colleague state Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, who passed away tragically last month. I would please ask that you keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.

After taking the oath of office for my second full term, I’m really looking forward to resuming the people’s work in Harrisburg. The Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee will hold budget hearings with various state departments and agencies beginning in the middle of this month to determine the areas most in need of financial assistance.

This will be the third state budget I’m able to help formulate as a member of the committee, so I’m ready to meet with department and agency leaders in the House chamber and help them serve all Pennsylvanians.

I’m proud to partner with state Sen. Wayne Fontana and help secure over $26 million in state funds to replace lead lines and safeguard the city of Pittsburgh’s drinking water supply. Safe drinking water must be accessible to all neighbors, regardless of income, social status or any other discriminatory factors.

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program is open for those in need.

BEAD consists of two, 60-day application periods for eligible entities to apply for funds to construct high-speed internet networks to areas that lack service. Dates for the second application period in 2025 will be announced soon.

During last year’s legislative session, I, along with state Reps. Lindsay Powell and Roni Green, introduced a bill that would mirror the now defunct Federal Affordable Connectivity Program. COVID-19 ushered in a new era of staying connected across multiple walks of life, and everyone deserves access to affordable and readily accessible internet.

Heating bill assistance is also available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. LIHEAP provides one-time cash payments ranging from $200 to $1,000 to qualifying consumers depending on household size, income and fuel type.

Crisis grants are available to households on the brink of losing heat, as well, so please make sure you apply with your COMPASS account or download a paper application, available in multiple languages, and submit it by April 4.

Talk to you all again in March!