On June 12, 2025, Representative Jill Cooper announced her support for House Bill 355, which aims to amend sections of the criminal code related to crimes against minors. The bill seeks to enhance sentencing for mandated reporters found guilty of sexually corrupting youth and expands the definition of unlawful contact with a minor to include human trafficking, incest, and sexual child endangerment.
Statistics from the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association indicate that one in five girls and one in 20 boys experience child sexual abuse. Between 2019 and 2023, there were over 36,000 child abuse cases reported in Pennsylvania.
A notable case involved Joseph Palmer Jr., a former police officer from York. In 2022, he was arrested for multiple charges related to child sex abuse but later agreed to a plea deal for corruption of minors. His victim, Grace McGhee, along with her father Chris McGhee, have been advocating for legislative changes following the conclusion of Palmer’s case.
In addition to House Bill 355, Representative Cooper highlighted other initiatives such as a student-created flag drop box project at Northern Westmoreland Career & Technology Center. Students Heavenly Hall and Brandon Grimm designed custom graphics under Mr. Salem’s guidance.
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) is offering $2,500 scholarships through its PA Forward and Keystone Student Loan programs. Eligible participants can enter between June 5 and December 15 for a chance to win.
Lastly, the eighth annual Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail invites visitors across Pennsylvania to explore local creameries. Participants can earn prizes by visiting trail stops until September 7.
For more information on these topics or to contact Representative Jill Cooper’s office, visit RepJillCooper.com or Facebook.com/RepJillCooper.
