With all of the politics surrounding the Affordable Care Act, people have been left frustrated and confused. On January 1, 2014 the law goes into effect, and the changes it brings with it will affect many of us. So, yesterday, I hosted and co-chaired a House Democratic policy hearing on the topic in Beechview. My intention was to dispel some of the rumors and get just the facts. I wanted to know who this law impacts and what resources are available.
I believe the job of good government is to inform citizens about the laws we pass and to provide resources to help people navigate this new inclusive, health care system. So, over the next two months, my office will be a community resource center for your questions regarding this issue. I will be inviting community leaders and small businesses to the table in October to discuss benefits and changes of the Affordable Care Act. Then in November, I will be hosting enrollment events around the district to bring health care resources to you.
Stay tuned. I’ll keep you posted.
Find out what's happening in Dormont-Brooklinewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
As always, my staff is here to help you with any of your state needs. You can contact my office at 412.343.2094.
From Harrisburg …
Find out what's happening in Dormont-Brooklinewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Gov. Corbett Rejects Medicaid Expansion, Promises New System to Cover Uninsured
One of the mechanisms of the Affordable Care Act meant to help insure all Americans is the expansion of Medicaid coverage. In Pennsylvania, this would provide health care to half a million people, bring $17 billion into the state, and result in thousands of new jobs. The governor, however, has decided not to act on straightforward expansion.
It is hard to forecast the outcome of his plan, however, there is great uncertainty as to how much more this system could cost and how long it could take to implement it. I only hope that the governor is choosing good policy and the people of Pennsylvania instead of politics and profits for corporations and mega-charities.
From the district …
Construction, Construction, Construction
*REMEMBER: You can always log on to 511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions on any major Pennsylvania roadways before traveling.
Liberty Tubes Inbound Open!
There’s nothing new to report here. Overnight closures of the tunnels will resume in both directions every night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Construction will continue into the fall.
Route 51 Closures
Route 51 will see lane restrictions starting next Monday, September 23, between Tariff and Glenbury streets for gas line relocation work. Work will occur Monday through Friday nights from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. Flaggers will be used to guide traffic.
Route 51 @ West Carson Street
Southbound traffic on West Carson Street cannot make a right turn into the Corliss Tunnel. There is a detour route set up. If you’d liked to be updated by PennDOT via email, send an email to stcowan@pa.gov and write “Subscribe – West Carson Street” in the subject line.
Upcoming District Events
September 21: Brookline Breezefest
The Boulevard is still under construction, but significant progress has been made. So, Brookline Chamber of Commerce will be hosting an Autumn Breezefest to showcase it from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by the office while you’re roaming the Boulevard to find out more about state services or to discuss your concerns about state issues.
September 21: Beechview’s 4th Annual Big Flea Market
Join me and your neighbors to shop local and support local musicians in Beechview. There will be crafts, collectibles, local musicians and food trucks in and around the IGA parking lot.
Click here to watch a clip of me speaking at the policy hearing.