Westmoreland Review

Rep. Jill Cooper, representing the 55th District of Westmoreland, shared a recent encounter with a family facing the challenges of food allergies. Jason, a parent whose daughter was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), recounted a harrowing experience where a food allergy led to a severe reaction. He described the frightening moment when his daughter's throat hurt, and she experienced a laryngospasm, turning blue. Thanks to prompt medical intervention, she made a full recovery.

In response to such incidents, Rep. Cooper highlighted a legislative effort she co-sponsored, House Bill 1869, aimed at improving food safety. The bill proposes measures to enhance awareness of food allergies, including creating posters for restaurants to display information about food allergies in preparation areas. Additionally, the bill suggests including language on menus to remind customers to communicate their food allergies to restaurant staff.

Reflecting on the importance of prevention, Rep. Cooper referenced Benjamin Franklin's wisdom, stating, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” She emphasized that by expanding knowledge and promoting communication, instances of food allergy emergencies could be mitigated.

The proposed legislation comes in the wake of alarming statistics, with food allergic reactions leading to 30,000 emergency room visits, 2,000 hospitalizations, and 150 deaths annually in the United States. Rep. Cooper believes that by making information about food allergies more accessible, as outlined in House Bill 1869, such incidents can be prevented.

In addition to addressing food allergy safety, Rep. Cooper shared updates on other community initiatives, including a Mobile License to Carry a Firearm event and the PA ABLE Savings Program. The latter, designed to assist individuals with disabilities and their families in saving for future expenses, has recently surpassed $100 million in assets.

For further details on these programs and initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit Rep. Cooper's official website or connect with her on social media platforms.

For media inquiries, please contact Jordan Frei at 724-875-8450.

Representative Jill Cooper continues to advocate for legislative measures that prioritize public health and safety in the 55th District of Westmoreland.