Recent Stories

state rep aaron bernstine

November 12, 2025

Local State Representatives React To PA State $50.6B Budget Passes

Local state representatives in the Ellwood City area expressed differing opinions on the recently passed 2025-26 Pennsylvania state budget, with reactions generally falling along party lines. The budget, which faced a 135-day delay, was approved by the legislature on Wednesday. Governor Josh Shapiro is expected to sign the General Appropriations Act into law today, November 12, 2025.  Bernstine: Can’t Support a Budget That Risks Future Tax Increases HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) issued the following statement explaining his “no” vote on the $50.1 billion budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year: “While this plan includes several positive elements, I could not…

October 10, 2025

Bernstine Applauds Launch of RowAmerica Pittsburgh at Lake Arthur

BUTLER – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) today announced the upcoming launch of RowAmerica Pittsburgh, a state-of-the-art rowing facility scheduled to open in spring 2026 at Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park. This project is made possible through the support of entrepreneur and philanthropist Howard Winklevoss, whose passion for youth development and rowing excellence is bringing new opportunities and investment to the region. To mark the announcement, a press conference will be held on Friday, Oct. 10, at 4 p.m., at the Bear Run Boat Ramp on Bear Run Road in Portersville, the future site of RowAmerica Pittsburgh. “I am proud…

July 16, 2025

Bernstine Votes ‘No’ on Irresponsible State Budget Proposal

HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) released the following statement after voting “no” on the 2025–26 Pennsylvania state budget, as House Democrats pushed through House Bill 1330, the General Appropriations bill. “This proposal spends too much, lacks transparency and sets up Pennsylvania for long-term fiscal trouble. “We are being asked to vote on a $50.6 billion spending plan without a full financial sheet, without a tax code and without a fiscal code. That’s not how responsible government works. “A budget isn’t just about how much money we spend; it’s about how that money is spent and how it impacts our future….

July 3, 2025

Bernstine to Host Free Shredding Event in Ellwood City

ELLWOOD CITY – In an effort to help residents protect themselves against identity theft, Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) will host a free community shredding event on Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ellport Borough Building, located at 313 Burns Ave., Ellwood City. This event offers residents of the 8th Legislative District an opportunity to securely dispose of documents containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, account information or medical records. “Identity theft continues to be a serious concern, and this event offers a secure and convenient way for residents to safely dispose of personal…

June 26, 2025

Bernstine Announces Butler, Lawrence Counties Receiving Funding from Natural Gas Drilling Impact Fees

HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) today announced that communities in the 8th Legislative District in Butler and Lawrence counties will receive nearly $894,000 in Marcellus Shale impact fees. “These impact fees are a direct investment in our communities, helping to build stronger roads, cleaner water systems and safer neighborhoods,” said Bernstine. “The natural gas industry continues to be a key driver for local progress and opportunity.” The following impact fee revenue amounts were announced by the state Public Utility Commission (PUC) for Butler and Lawrence counties and eligible municipalities that are part of the 8th District. Butler County: Brady…

April 28, 2025

Bernstine Announces Loan for Portersville Muddy Creek EMS Ambulance Upgrade

HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) today announced the Portersville Muddy Creek Township Volunteer Fire Department has been approved for an $81,740 loan from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. The funding will support the purchase of a Ford E350 Crestline CCL150 ambulance, significantly enhancing the department’s emergency response capabilities. “This investment ensures our local EMS professionals have the resources they need to respond quickly and safely in emergencies,” said Bernstine. “I’m proud to support initiatives that protect the health and safety of our communities in Butler and Lawrence counties.” The loan was awarded through the Fire Company and Emergency…

March 11, 2025

Bernstine Introduces Legislation to Establish Registry for Individuals Convicted of Child Abuse

HARRISBURG – Legislation aimed at improving community safety by establishing a public registry for individuals convicted of child abuse has been introduced by Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence). This new registry would ensure information about child abusers is easily accessible to the public, empowering communities across the Commonwealth to take necessary precautions. “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from harm,” said Bernstine. “By creating this registry, we are taking an important step toward protecting our children and giving communities the tools they need to prevent abuse. The public has a right to know who is in their…

February 28, 2025

Bernstine Introduces Legislation to Protect Parental Rights in Medical Decisions for Minor Children

HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) has introduced legislation aimed at protecting the rights of parents and guardians in the medical decision-making process for their minor children. The bill, known as Simon’s Law, would require health care professionals or facilities to notify parents before placing a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order on any patient under the age of 18. The law would also require written or oral consent from at least one parent or guardian before a DNR order can be issued. “This bill is designed to ensure no parent is kept in the dark when it comes to life-altering decisions for…

February 18, 2025

Bernstine Introduces Legislation to Create Two-Tiered Concealed Carry System, Supporting Constitutional Carry Rights

HARRISBURG – Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) has introduced legislation designed to enhance the concealed carry process for firearm owners in Pennsylvania. House Bill 454 would create a two-tiered system to streamline firearm carrying laws, ensuring greater protection of citizens’ Second Amendment rights while balancing public safety. “Pennsylvanians have the fundamental right to protect themselves and their families, and this legislation is a step toward ensuring that right is respected,” said Bernstine. “Law-abiding citizens who follow the rules should not face undue obstacles when it comes to exercising their constitutional rights. The proposed two-tiered system provides more freedom, more choice and…

February 13, 2025

Ellwood City Fire Department Among Many To Receive State Grants

Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) announced Wednesday local fire companies and emergency medical services (EMS) agencies were awarded state grants totaling nearly $216,000 from the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. The program was created by the Legislature and is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, or reduction of existing debt. “Local fire and EMS agencies are the backbone of our community’s safety, and it’s crucial that we support…