Rep. Eric Nelson - 57th Legislative District

Contact Information

Capitol Office
432 Irvis Office Building
PO Box 202057
Harrisburg PA 17120-2088
Tel: 717-260-6146
Fax: 717-782-2882

District Offices:
101 Ehalt Street, Suite 105
Greensburg, PA 15601-2300
Phone: 724-834-6400
Fax: 724-834-6799
Hours: Monday through Friday
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Youngwood Borough Building
17 South 6th Street
Youngwood, PA 15697
Tel: 724-925-5490
Hours: Tuesday and Thursday
9 a.m. to noon

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Students in Ken Stough’s Project 18 class from Hempfield High School stopped at the Capitol as part of their annual trip to Harrisburg. Rep. Eric Nelson spoke to them about issues facing the Legislature. The course teaches students about local and state governments. The program has been offered at Hempfield since 1974 and was originally a statewide effort to engage students when the voting age was lowered to 18.

In May, I joined the House Majority Policy Committee in a Washington County tour to learn more about the intricacies of Marcellus Shale drilling and clean-burning natural gas. This was one stop of several to examine the process of drilling and production.

At a Capitol press conference, Rep. Eric Nelson spoke about his legislation to encourage brownfield cleanup and redevelopment by creating a streamlined permitting process. More specifically, House Bill 1105 would consolidate the permitting process so that there would be one permit covering all aspects of work for companies looking to revitalize abandoned and brownfield sites. The legislation is modeled after a similar process used in Ohio since 1994.The bill is part of an eight-piece package to #EnergizePA.

Steel and coke manufacturing have long been a hallmark of the Pittsburgh region with great historical significance. Even today, the metals industry makes up the largest part of southwestern Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing sector with steel manufacturing at its heart.
In April, Rep. Eric Nelson had the opportunity to tour U.S. Steel’s Pittsburgh-area operations and learned more about the company’s innovation and how employees provide support to the company’s integrated steelmaking operations worldwide. The 3,000 Pennsylvanians employed directly at the U.S. Steel Mon Valley Works support an additional 10,500 jobs throughout southwestern Pennsylvania.

Rep. Eric Nelson spoke at an April press conference in support of House Bill 986. This legislation would conduct a thorough review of the Medical Assistance Transportation Program. The program offers shared rides to medical appointments for Medical Assistance recipients when other means are unavailable to them. Pictured with Nelson is Alan Blahovec, executive director at Westmoreland County Transit Authority, who supports this bill.

The Hempfield Area High School Girls' Softball Team visited the Capitol in March. Team members were honored on their 2018 PIAA Class 6A Softball Championship. The team won its third consecutive title by beating Parkland High School in extra innings. Rep. Eric Nelson is pictured with the team, and Reps. Mike Reese and Justin Walsh in the Main Rotunda.

In March, the House recognized the 100th Anniversary of the American Legion. The American Legion has been a staunch advocate for veterans and their families since 1919. It was founded on the four pillars of care for veterans, a strong national defense, Americanism, and children and youth. As a Marine Corps veteran, Rep. Eric Nelson was proud to stand with his House colleagues to honor this outstanding organization.

As part of the ongoing initiative to support #GoodJobs4PA through improved workforce development, Rep. Eric Nelson joined the House Majority Policy Committee in visiting three hands-on career training programs in western Pennsylvania. As a deputy chair of the committee, he led the first tour, which was at the Western Pennsylvania Operating Engineers Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program in New Alexandria. Programs like these play a vital role in ensuring available jobs in a variety of trades can be filled by qualified workers. These are rewarding careers that provide good-paying jobs to our citizens. The committee also visited the Keystone Mountain Lakes Regional Council of Carpenters in Pittsburgh and Steamfitters Local 449’s training facility in Harmony, Butler County.

Rep. Eric Nelson presented Tay Waltenbaugh, chief executive officer of Westmoreland County Action, with a House citation recognizing Waltenbaugh on his years of dedicated service to the community.

The Greensburg Salem High School Boys' Cross Country Team was honored at the Capitol by Rep. Eric Nelson in February. The team captured the 2018 PIAA Class AA Boys’ Cross Country State Title on Nov. 3 in Hershey.

Rep. Eric Nelson honored three members of the New Stanton Volunteer Fire Department with service recognition awards during its annual banquet. He is pictured with(from left) Daniel Emanuel who has served for 45 years and Brandon Todd who has served for 25 years.

Rep. Eric Nelson attended the Westmoreland County Prayer breakfast in January. It was led by students from throughout the county. Nelson is pictured with students and David Zilli, principal at Greensburg Salem High School.

Rep. Eric Nelson attended an event at St. Vincent College honoring Franklin Regional School District Superintendent Gennaro Piraino on receiving the 2019 Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year award.

During Rep. Eric Nelson’s visit to the Pennsylvania Farm Show, he caught up with Erica Stark, executive director of the National Hemp Association.

Rep. Eric Nelson attended the Pennsylvania Farm Show's Public Officials Luncheon. He is pictured with Julia Jumper, sentinel of the Pennsylvania 4-H State Council.

Rep. Eric Nelson took the oath of office as a state representative for the 2019-20 Legislative Session in January. This is his second full term representing the residents of the 57th Legislative District. He is pictured with his wife, Susan, on the House floor.

In December, Rep. Eric Nelson participated in Andrea Redinger’s 10th annual Critter Cruise at Greensburg Salem High School. Students in Redinger’s plant and animal biology classes teamed up with fourth-grade students and taught the younger students about a variety of animals and bugs.

The Gas and Oil Caucus, chaired by Rep. Eric Nelson, hosted a bipartisan forum at Dominion Energy – Delmont to discuss job creation through ethane storage and plastics in the coming legislative session. Energy employers and building trades officers from western and central Pennsylvania were in attendance.

Rep. Eric Nelson toured LCT Energy’s newest coal mine in Acme with some of his House colleagues. The visit gave him a firsthand perspective on how legislation and regulation impact the industry.

Rep. Eric Nelson attended Veterans Day celebrations around the district. Special recognition to Joe Folino, who was presented with the French Legion of Honor Award by French Honorary Consul Jean-Dominique Le Garrec at the VFW Post 33.

The Greensburg Salem High School Boys Cross Country Team won the 2018 PIAA Class AA State Title in November. The team also won the WPIAL title in October. Rep. Eric Nelson is pictured speaking at the celebratory parade.

In late October, Rep. Eric Nelson hosted a Coffee Talk at Stanton Daily Grind in New Stanton.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted a shredding event in October at the North Hempfield Volunteer Fire Department to give residents of the 57th Legislative District a chance to safeguard themselves against identity theft by having their personal documents securely destroyed. Hempfield Area High School’s Project 18 class assisted with the event. About 3.5 tons of documents were shredded and then recycled.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted his annual State Capitol Bus Trip to Harrisburg. Visitors from the 57th District toured the Capitol, observed legislative session and were introduced on the floor by the Speaker. They also made a stop at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Rep. Eric Nelson tour the Western Pennsylvania Operating Engineers Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program in New Alexandria. This non-profit educational training program provides qualified heavy equipment operators and mechanic technicians to contractors in the construction industry.

Rep. Eric Nelson joined some of his House colleagues in a tour of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local No. 5’s state-of-the-art Joint Apprenticeship Training Center in Pittsburgh. The center is funded entirely by the union and private contracting companies. This spring, the House passed a multiple-bill bipartisan package to improve career and technical education opportunities and enhance science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum. Students need to know many good-paying career opportunities are available without a college degree

Rep. Eric Nelson attended the Next Generation Farm Summit at the J. Roy Houston Conservation Center and Donohoe Center in Greensburg. This Westmoreland Conservation District event for farmers and would-be farms discussed new trends and markets in agriculture. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Greg Phillips, Westmoreland Conservation District; Kiersten Hooks, AgChoice Farm Credit; and Tom Beresnyak, Penn State Extension.

During the 2018 Chamber Day at the Capitol, Rep. Eric Nelson met with (from left) Chad Amond, president of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce; and Ron Ott, director of health care management at the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg and a member of the chamber. The event brings together members of the chamber of commerce community to network with other chambers and meet with state lawmakers and administration officials to discuss issues of importance to job creators and Pennsylvania communities.

Motorcycle advocates visited the state Capitol in June for their annual rally. This is the 15th year for ABATE (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education) to gather in Harrisburg. Pictured with Rep. Eric Nelson (from left) are Zoot Bozzuto, Michele Bozzuto, Charles Umbenhauer and Tony Banicci.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in the PA Hero Walk at Twin Lakes Park in June. The event raised money to assist those who served in the military.

Students in Ken Stough’s Project 18 class from Hempfield High School, including Rep. Eric Nelson’s daughter Brooke, visited the Capitol as part of their annual trip to Harrisburg. The course teaches students about local and state governments. The program has been offered at Hempfield since 1974 and was originally a statewide effort to engage students when the voting age was lowered to 18. Nelson was so proud to be in Harrisburg with Brooke and is pictured with the class and Reps. Mike Reese (R-Westmoreland/Somerset) and Justin Walsh (R-Westmoreland) on the House floor.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted a morning coffee at Dapper Doughnut. After a brief presentation, he answered a variety of questions about state-related issues.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted a Concealed Carry Seminar at Word of Life in Greensburg. About 150 people learned about Pennsylvania’s concealed carry laws and firearms safety. The program included Attorney Ed Bilick and Kim Stolfer, a National Rifle Association-certified training instructor.

After a joint meeting with the House and Senate policy committees, Rep. Eric Nelson talked with Tracie McCall, marketing manager for Marathon Petroleum Corporation. She spoke to the committees about the thousands upon thousands of products derived from fossil fuels that are a part of everyone’s daily lives.

Student and professional pharmacists visited the Capitol in April as part of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association’s annual Legislative Day. Rep. Eric Nelson met with Ryan Trout of Greensburg, who is in his final year of the Duquesne University School of Pharmacy. They discussed pending legislation relative to health care and pharmacy practice.

State Treasurer Joe Torsella visited Westmoreland County in April to officially launch the Keystone Scholars Program. This pilot program provides each child born or adopted in six select counties in the state with a $100 college savings account. Children born or adopted in Westmoreland, Indiana, Delaware, Elk, Luzerne and Mifflin counties will be eligible for the program in 2018 and 2019. The hope is to expand the program statewide. Rep. Eric Nelson joined fellow members of the General Assembly, the Westmoreland County Board of Commissioners, officials from Excela Health and local families for the announcement.

Westmoreland County Food bank officials, elected officials and Walmart held a ribbon cutting and unveiling of a new refrigerated van for the Westmoreland County Food Bank. The vehicle was paid for through a grant from Walmart and will help facilitate the transport of perishable food. Rep. Eric Nelson participated in the event.

Tyler Williams held his Eagle Scout Court of Honor recently. Tyler, the son of Jeremiah and Mellanie Williams, designed and constructed a bioretention cell to help mitigate a flooding issue. He is a member of Troop 457. Rep. Eric Nelson had the honor of presenting Tyler with a House citation recognizing him on this honor.

In March, Rep. Eric Nelson hosted a coffee at the VFW Post 33 in Greensburg. A good discussion on state-related issues occurred.

Former Penn State running back Saquon Barkley visited the House on March 14, as it was declared “Saquon Barkley Day” in Pennsylvania. A graduate of Whitehall High School in Lehigh County, Saquon was named Mr. PA Football during his senior season in 2014. During his Penn State career, the football team went 29-11 and won a Big 10 Championship. Rep Eric Nelson is pictured with Saquon during his visit.

In March, Rep. Eric Nelson attended the Pennsylvania 4-H Capital Days Legislative Brunch. During the event, 4-H delegates shared their experiences and the importance of continuing to support Penn State Extension and the 4-H Youth Development Program. Nelson is pictured with Julia Jumper of Delmont. She is one of eight officers who comprise the 2018 Pennsylvania State 4-H Council.

In January, Rep. Eric Nelson hosted an Educational Roundtable at Hempfield Area High School. The event brought together representatives from high schools within the district, along with representatives from colleges and universities in our surrounding area. A great dialogue ensued creating a better understanding of how to best prepare students for post-secondary education. Many intangibles exists beyond grades and test scores.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted an evening coffee and dessert at the American Legion Post 18 in Slickville. A very attentive crowd asked many good questions about state-related issues.

In January, Rep. Eric Nelson was invited to attend Crystal Krznaric and Kayla Griest's Independent Study Class presentation at Greensburg Salem High School. The girls’ studied how natural and sustainable foods lead to good health. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Krznaric; Griest; Dr. Eileen Amato, superintendent of Greensburg Salem School District; and Angelo Ross, teacher.

Rep. Eric Nelson visited the 2018 Pennsylvania Farm Show and met up with Julia Jumper of Delmont. She is one of eight officers who comprise the 2018 Pennsylvania State 4-H Council. She won first place in photography and her sister, Emily, took second place in youth division – senior project party/formal garment.

The Westmoreland County Food Bank recently received $122,375 through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). This money will be used to replace an aging freezer. NAP is a tax credit program to encourage businesses to invest in projects which improve distressed areas and allows them to keep their tax dollars local. Rep. Eric Nelson is pictured with (from left) Kris Douglas, CEO at the Westmoreland County Food Bank; Rep. Mike Reese; Sen. Kim Ward; Rep. Justin Walsh; and Jennifer Miller, director of development at the Westmoreland County Food Bank.

Teacher Andrea Redinger recently led her annual Critter Cruise at Greensburg Salem High School. Students in Redinger’s plant and animal biology classes teamed up with fourth-grade students from Nicely Elementary School and taught the younger students about a variety of animals and bugs. The annual event was first held in 2008. Rep. Eric Nelson visited with the students and animals.

Rep. Eric Nelson recently met with Brooke Smith and the newly formed Young Politicians Club at Greensburg Salem High School.

A ribbon cutting was held in December for one of 29 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling stations at public transit agencies through a Public Private Partnership (P3) with Trillium. The station is located at 1823 Business Route 66, Greensburg. As part of the conversion in Westmoreland County, the transit agency will convert 25 diesel buses and 16 paratransit buses to CNG. The authority estimates saving more than $400,000 annually based on current diesel costs and their diesel and gas usage of roughly 415,000 gallons per year.

Rep. Eric Nelson toured ArcelorMittal Monessen. This plant produces high-quality coke and related carbon byproducts and employs 181 people. The facility’s proximity to the Monongahela River and Monessen’s central location to numerous blast furnaces allows for enhanced distribution options and freight cost savings. A number of other industries, including barge and rail operations, support the Monessen location. This plant is just one example of how western Pennsylvania’s natural resources make it a good place for industry.

Two Greensburg 4-H members recently were named a 2017 Outstanding 4-H member. Rep. Eric Nelson helped congratulate (from left) Janelle Hayward and Lindsey Klosky. Janelle has been a 4-H member for nine years and is active in the Teen Leadership Council, Extreme Stockman 4-H Club and the Junior Livestock Committee. Lindsey has been a 4-H member for eight years and is active in the Mountain View Ag, Trailblazers and Westmoreland Squares 4-H clubs.

Rep. Eric Nelson helped recognize Eric Hess during his Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Eric, a member of Troop 480, is the son of Jennifer and Daniel Hess of Hempfield Township. For his Eagle Scout project, Eric renovated the social hall at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church.

Students from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) visited the Capitol recently. Rep. Eric Nelson was able to catch up with two of his constituents during their visit. WPSD provides quality educational services and a complete extracurricular program to deaf and hard-of-hearing children from birth through their senior year in high school. Pictured Nelson and Sen. Kim Ward (from left) are Spencer Ahearn and Laura Cottrell.

In October, Rep. Eric Nelson hosted his annual State Capitol Bus Tour for residents of the 57th Legislative District. During their visit, attendees toured the Capitol, observed legislative session and were introduced on the floor by the Speaker.

The House Labor and Industry Committee, of which I am a member, held a public hearing on House Bill 1641. This legislation would create the Employment First Program to promote the hiring of persons with disabilities.

In October, Rep. Eric Nelson sponsored a House Resolution designating Oct. 6, 2017, as “Domestic Violence Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania. He presented a copy of the resolution to Dr. Gary Cuccia. Cuccia’s daughter, Demi Brea Cuccia, was murdered by her ex-boyfriend 10 years ago. After her death, he created the Demi Brae Cuccia Awareness Organization to honor her memory.

Rep. Eric Nelson traveled to Washington, D.C., for the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives' Conference. The group met with top White House and federal department/agency officials to discuss a variety of issues. Prior to the conference, Nelson toured the White House.

The Westmoreland County Food Bank recently held its second annual Legislative Service Project Day. Rep. Eric Nelson and his staff helped sort food as part of the event.

Rep. Eric Nelson held his Veterans Appreciation Picnic to honor and recognize military veterans and their surviving family members residing in the 57th Legislative District. As a Marine, Nelson understands the sacrifice, selfless service and dedication our veterans have demonstrated. This event was just one small way to say thank you.

In September, the House of Representatives announced the formation of the Boy Scout Caucus, of which Rep. Eric Nelson is a member. The purpose of the group is to support the ideals and mission of the Boy Scouts. As a Boy Scout, Nelson achieved the rank of Life Scout, and his memories of his time in Scouting remain with him today.

Rep. Eric Nelson met with representatives of Westmoreland County Community College, who provided information to legislators on the economic impact of the Advanced Technology Center, along with an update on the college. Students also shared their stories about their journeys at the school.

Rep. Eric Nelson joined Sen. Kim Ward and Rep. Justin Walsh in a tour of the Tenaska Westmoreland Generating Station near Smithton. Construction of the facility has already generated more than 425 jobs and is expected to peak at more than 600 jobs from October 2017 through Spring 2018. Plant operations positions have already begun to be filled. Goods and services have been contracted from 125 area businesses. Commercial operations should begin in late 2018.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in a Taxpayers’ Caucus hearing on the Senate’s proposed state budget tax plan and its effect on small businesses and everyday Pennsylvanians.

The grand reopening and ribbon cutting for the Westmoreland County Community College’s Murrysville campus in Export was held in August. The facility was formerly the Bushy Run Center. Rep. Eric Nelson joined the celebration. Westmoreland County is fortunate to be home to many postsecondary education choices.

Rep. Eric Nelson visited Clelian Heights and had lunch with the students and staff. It is a great facility!

Rep. Eric Nelson visited a Hempfield Township archeological site with Dr. Ben Ford, a professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and his students. The group is conducting an archaeological excavation at Hanna’s Town, looking to identify the edge of Old Hannastown Road to Fort Hannastown. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Jessie Hoover and Sam Edwards.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in the bill signing for legislation strengthening the existing animal cruelty laws. The new law makes it easier to prosecute a person who knowingly mistreats, abuses or neglects an animal. Act 10 of 2017, known as “Libre’s Law,” is named after a Boston terrier puppy who was rescued from a Lancaster County farm last summer after suffering from severe neglect.

Michael Kissel of Greensburg received a UniqueSource Achievement Award for demonstrating outstanding and exceptional character in living and coping with disabilities, particularly in the workplace. Rep. Eric Nelson was able to join Kissel in Hershey for the awards presentation.

Rep. Eric Nelson attended the first Westmoreland County Drug Court graduation. Jeffrey of Greensburg and Chris of New Kensington completed the program, which required regular therapy sessions, drug tests and visits with a probation officer and judge. Both men received certificates and medals. The program is funded by the county, participants and private donations. Nelson and Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) are pictured with (from left) Jeffrey and Judge Meagan Bilik-DeFazio.

In June, Rep. Eric Nelson joined his colleagues in the General Assembly to witness the governor sign pension reform legislation into law. In keeping his promise, Nelson supported this bill, which is the first step in implementing meaningful pension reform. The law slows the growth of pension liabilities, shifts risk away from taxpayers and ensures the Commonwealth can meet its future pension obligations.

Rep. Eric Nelson spoke in May at the 14th annual Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education (A.B.A.T.E.) rally at the Capitol. The event raises awareness about motorcycle issues.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in the House Majority Policy Committee hearing at Penn State Fayette. It focused on welfare reform efforts in the Commonwealth, including qualification and access to programs, as well as tackling waste, fraud and abuse.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in a community gardens and greenspace planting on State Route 30 in the area of Greengate Road. Joining him were Brian Gallagher, government relations manager for Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and Carol Triano, garden steward.

Representatives of St. Vincent College met with Rep. Eric Nelson at the Capitol. He enjoyed their conversation about all the great things happening at the college and their concerns about higher education in the Commonwealth. Pictured with Nelson is the Rev. Paul Taylor, executive vice president.

Rep. Eric Nelson hosted his annual senior expo with Sen. Don White (R-Armstrong/Butler/Indiana/Westmoreland) in May. More than 200 people attended and visited with a variety of vendors and exhibitors from local, state, federal and nonprofit organizations that provided information on topics such as health care, insurance, nutrition and personal safety.

The Penn Grade Crude Coalition unveiled its report about the impact of the conventional oil and gas industry in the Commonwealth. The report found the industry has a $1.4 billion annual economic impact and supports 5,600 jobs. Most of the conventional oil and gas industry is centered in western Pennsylvania. Rep. Eric Nelson joined the announcement.

Students in Ken Stough’s Project 18 class from Hempfield High School visited the Capitol as part of their annual trip to Harrisburg. The course teaches students about local and state governments. The program has been offered at Hempfield since 1974 and was originally a statewide effort to engage students when the voting age was lowered to 18. Rep. Eric Nelson is pictured with the students and Reps. Justin Walsh (R-Westmoreland) and Mike Reese (R-Westmoreland/Somerset).

Rep. Eric Nelson met with Hannah Mercer and Patrick Edwards, Indiana University of Pennsylvania students, at the Undergraduate Research at the Capitol – Pennsylvania poster conference. Their poster focused on gender inequality in professional tennis. The annual event allows undergraduate students enrolled in Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities to showcase their research talents to the Commonwealth’s key decision makers.

Rep. Eric Nelson met with members of the Epilepsy Foundation who were in Harrisburg to discuss funding and House Bill 395, which removes epilepsy and seizure disorder drugs from the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) requirement. They are pictured in the East Wing Rotunda.

The Greensburg Central Catholic Girls’ Volleyball team visited the Capitol to be recognized on its 2016 PIAA Class A Girls’ title. The team beat Marian Catholic in straight sets on Nov. 19, 2016. Pictured with Rep. Eric Nelson and the team are Reps. George Dunbar (R-Westmoreland), Mike Reese (R-Westmoreland/Somerset) and Justin Walsh (R-Westmoreland).

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in a press conference with his colleagues to advocate for a package of bills to reform state standardized testing policies. Nelson’s legislation would require PSSA tests not be administered until three weeks prior to Memorial Day. Currently, the state mandates when testing is conducted, and sometimes it begins as early as late March. PSSA tests should be a culminating activity so students can demonstrate all they have learned.

Some constituents from the 57th Legislative District visited the Capitol to participate in Americans for Prosperity’s Tax Freedom Day Rally. The average Pennsylvanian works from the start of the year until mid-April to pay his or her share of federal, state and local taxes. This tax burden needs to be reduced. Pictured with Rep. Eric Nelson (from left) are Joan and Ted Davi and Joseph and Karen Kukosky, all of Greensburg.

Pharmacy students and staff from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine’s (LECOM) Erie Campus visited the Capitol in April as part of the 2017 Pharmacy Legislative Day. LECOM has formed a partnership with Seton Hill University in Greensburg to allow students to reserve a spot in medical, dental or pharmacy school at LECOM. Pictured with Rep. Eric Nelson (from left) are Dr. Kim Burns, professor of clinical pharmacy practice; Dr. Rachel Ogden, associate dean for accelerated pathway; Sally Habusta, a student from Erie; Katie Freeman, a student from Pittsburgh; Harry Ghooray, a student from Kentucky; and Michael Coulter, a student from Butler.

During Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Advocacy Day at the Capitol, Rep. Eric Nelson met with students and staff from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Pictured with him are Caleb King of East Brady, majoring in applied mathematics and economics and the incoming student trustee; Meghan Delsite of Sunbury, master’s degree student; Erika Fenstermacher of Butler, majoring in psychology and the outgoing student trustee; Michael Driscoll, president at IUP; Brian Swatt of Jermyn, majoring in political science and president of the undergraduate student government; Robin Gorman, executive assistant to the president for government relations; and Carson Nicholas of Harrisburg, majoring in political science and vice president of the undergraduate student government.

On April 6, Rep. Eric Nelson held an informational meeting with the Pennsylvania Game Commission and Fish and Boat Commission at the Youngwood Sportsmen’s Association. Member of each commission provide valuable information about hunting and fishing rules and opportunities. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Andy Shiels, director of the Bureau of Fisheries for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission; Rocco Ali, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat commissioner; and Tim Schaeffer, director of policy and planning for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

Shelby Kimmick, a student at Westmoreland County Community College, was selected for the 2017 All-Pennsylvania Academic Team sponsored by the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa, the international academic honor society for students at two-year colleges. Those chosen were honored at the Capitol. During Shelby’s visit to Harrisburg, she met with Rep. Eric Nelson. Recipients of this award receive a scholarship that may be used at any college in the Pennsylvania system. Shelby is the daughter of Robert and Lisa Kimmick of Youngwood and will be attending California University of Pennsylvania in the fall to study accounting.

On March 21, Dr. Sharon Smith, president of the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, and Pitt Greensburg students visited the Capitol and met with Rep. Eric Nelson. Paul Adams, Nelson’s classmate from Hempfield High School Class of 1987 and a professor at Pitt Greensburg, was in the group.

In March, Rep. Eric Nelson led the “My Work, My Choice” rally at the Capitol, which drew just under 1,000 people. The attendees were upset and concerned regarding the Department of Human Services’ (DHS) interpretation of a federal final rule governing home- and community-based service waivers. The rule would have forced those with special needs to spend a large portion of their time in the community rather than in day programs and workshops, where they are safe, happy and thriving. A compromise proposal between DHS and the General Assembly is being considered.

Brooke Smith, daughter of Curt and Michelle Smith, joined Rep. Eric Nelson at the Capitol in March. She is a junior at Greensburg Salem High School and was shadowing Nelson as part of her graduation requirements. In the future, Brooke plans a career in political science or as a history teacher.

As part of National Read Across America Day, Rep. Eric Nelson read to students at the Greensburg Early Care and Education Center.

Rep. Eric Nelson joined other members of the House Majority Policy Committee at a hearing in Washington County on the opioid epidemic and how it’s impacting the community. Nelson spoke about Westmoreland County’s drug court. Pictured with Nelson is Rep. Aaron Kaufer (R-Luzerne), who is chairman of the House HOPE (Heroin, Opioid Prevention and Education) Caucus.

In early February, Rep. Eric Nelson participated in a small business tax fairness roundtable discussion. His legislation, House Bill 333, would allow small and midsize businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment purchased during the tax year, up to $500,000.

Rep. Eric Nelson participated in the 42nd annual Westmoreland County Prayer Breakfast. The featured speaker was retired Col. and the Rev. Frank Ziemkiewicz, O.S.B. He is headmaster at the Benedictine Military School. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Jim Creenan, partner in Creenan and Baczkowski, P.C.; Jim Bendel, director of planned giving at St. Vincent College; Cpl. James Gregg, Pennsylvania State Police; Ziemkiewicz; and Chad Amond, president of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce.

Rep. Eric Nelson recently recognized Abigail Gillis of Greensburg, who was selected to receive a 2017 Pennsylvania Farm Show Scholarship. A sophomore at Seton Hill University majoring in Biology Pre-Med, she is a former member of the Sugarload, Sunshine and Westmoreland Squares 4-H Clubs, where she participated in multiple leadership roles. Abby is a nine-year veteran of the Farm Show exhibiting in the Junior Market Swine and 4-H Square Dancing competitions. She was the 2014 Westmoreland Fair Queen and has received numerous awards. Abby aspires to be a pediatrician. Pictured with Nelson (from left) are Randy Gillis; Wendy Gillis; Abby Gillis; Bonnie Rank, New Holland Sales Stables; Ron Rank, New Holland Sales Stables; and Michael Smith, executive deputy secretary at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

Rep. Eric Nelson was joined for the 2017 swearing-in ceremony by staff. Pictured in the Capitol Rotunda (from left) are Philomena Vanek, Maria Beadling, Dixie Minnich and Timothy Gribbin.

On Jan. 3, Rep. Eric Nelson took the oath of office to commence the 201st session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. He is committed to working to address pension reform and the opioid epidemic. In addition, job creation and making the Commonwealth more business-friendly remain top priorities.

Recently, I presented Greensburg resident and U.S. Army veteran Carl Smith with an official House citation in recognition of his recently awarded French Legion of Honour medal for his efforts to help liberate France from the Nazis during World War II. Mr. Smith has already received several other highly distinguished military honors including the Purple Heart Medal and five bronze stars.

I was honored to attend the official dedication of the David Sheridan, P.E. Memorial Interchange on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Recently, I participated in the Westmoreland County Farm Bureau Legislative Tour at Windy Heights Farm Market with PA Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding.

I was proud to host one of eight bipartisan statewide policy committee hearings at Westmoreland County Community College on Aug. 4 to gather testimony from judges, law enforcement, medical professionals, treatment centers, employers, educators, advocates and citizens about Pennsylvania’s opioid epidemic and its impact on our communities.

I was proud to attend the 2016 Comcast Leaders and Achiever’s scholarship ceremony at the State Museum in Harrisburg where Kacee Carter, a student at Greensburg Salem High School, received a $1,000 scholarship. Congratulations Kacee and best wishes for future success!

Recently, I participated in the official launch of the Fill A Glass With Hope program at the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Fill A Glass With Hope is a partnership formed among Feeding Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association, Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association, agriculture partners and business leaders that provides fresh milk to Pennsylvania families in need through Feeding Pennsylvania’s statewide network of food banks.

My wife Susan and I had a wonderful time attending the Disabled Veterans dinner held at Greensburg VFW Post 33. Pictured with us from left are Ken Komlos, Al Wood, Alisha D'Astolfo and Post Commander David Cackowski.

It was such a great blessing to have so many of my family, friends and supporters who joined my wife Susan and I in Harrisburg for my official swearing-in ceremony as State Representative for the 57th Legislative District.

Rep. Eric Nelson was joined for the 2017 swearing-in ceremony by staff. Pictured in the Capitol Rotunda (from left) are Philomena Vanek, Maria Beadling, Dixie Minnich and Timothy Gribbin.

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