Westmoreland Review

Mar. 21, 2024

Representative Jill Cooper of the 55th Legislative District recently addressed concerns regarding the labeling of Westmoreland County as a sanctuary county. Cooper expressed her satisfaction with county officials' actions to remove this label, stating, "I was happy that county officials, after working with myself and a House colleague, took action to have that label removed."

Cooper emphasized the importance of distinguishing between legal and illegal immigration, highlighting the need for cooperation with federal authorities. She mentioned discussions with Westmoreland County Commissioners, including Commissioner Doug Chew, confirming their commitment to fully cooperate with federal authorities despite the absence of an official county policy.

Furthermore, Cooper commended the efforts of her colleague, Rep. Stephenie Scialabba, in working with Butler County officials to adopt a formal policy that led to the removal of Butler County from the list of sanctuary counties. She stated, "My friend and colleague Rep. Stephenie Scialabba, knowing that the label did not adequately reflect the will of Butler County’s residents, worked with Butler officials on adopting a formal policy."

The Westmoreland County Prison Board, comprising various county officials such as Commissioner Sean Kertes, Sheriff James Albert, and District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli, recently unanimously adopted a policy ensuring compliance with all ICE detainers and regular sharing of detainee lists with ICE. This policy aims to address concerns raised by third-party organizations regarding immigration enforcement.

In addition to immigration-related issues, Representative Cooper expressed opposition to proposed legislation that would allow undocumented individuals to obtain driver's licenses, citing security concerns and potential implications for the legal immigration process.

Residents of Pennsylvania are also encouraged to prepare for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, with the state being one of only 13 states in the path of totality. PennDOT has developed specific routes for travelers to the City of Erie, which will experience one of the longest periods of darkness during the eclipse.

Moreover, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has opened applications for the 2024 Commonwealth Specialty Crop Block Grants, targeting high-priority crops such as hardwoods, honey, and hops. Eligible applicants are invited to submit proposals by April 19 to enhance market growth and support Pennsylvania growers.

For more information on these developments and initiatives, visit Representative Jill Cooper's website or social media channels.

For media inquiries, please contact Jordan Frei at 724-875-8450 or visit jillCooper.com/Facebook.com/RepJillCooper.