Westmoreland Review

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has announced a series of updates from the 55th Legislative District, including holiday closures, new legislation, and upcoming events. Representative Jill Cooper extends her holiday greetings to constituents, reminding them that district office hours may be limited during the festive season.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will close its Driver License Centers on December 25 and January 1 for Christmas and New Year's Day. However, services remain accessible online via PennDOT's website.

A significant development is the enactment of Act 111 of 2024, which addresses Alzheimer’s and dementia care. The law establishes an Alzheimer's, Dementia and Related Disorders Office within the Department of Aging. Representative Cooper emphasized the need for this initiative by referencing a study from the Center for Rural Pennsylvania that highlights an aging population in rural areas with limited care facilities.

"The committee will include the secretaries of the departments of Aging, Health, Human Services, and Labor and Industry," she noted. The study predicts a notable increase in Alzheimer's cases by 2040 and calls for policy changes to improve caregiver support programs among other recommendations.

For students seeking summer employment, PennDOT offers positions from May through August with an hourly rate of $17. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and enrolled in college. Interested applicants should apply online before January 17.

Lastly, Representative Cooper invites residents to attend the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show starting January 4 in Harrisburg. This year's theme is "Powering Pennsylvania," focusing on agriculture's role in the state's economy. Admission is free but parking costs $15 per vehicle.