Lehigh Times

In a review of the legislative accomplishments made in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives during 2023, Representative Ryan Mackenzie highlighted several notable achievements in various areas. One of the key focuses was on easing the tax burden for residents, with Mackenzie introducing the Pennsylvania Families Tax Relief Plan. This package of bills includes proposals to cut taxes on energy and common family purchases, reduce property taxes, and decrease cell phone bills. Speaking about the proposals, Mackenzie stated, "The measures are reasonable recommendations that would help to improve the bottom line for many struggling families and individuals."

Mackenzie was also appointed as the Republican Chairman of the House Labor and Industry Committee. In this role, he introduced legislation to protect minors from being exploited by unscrupulous employers. The proposed House Bill 1714 aims to increase penalties for serious child labor law violations and require cross-reporting of such cases. Mackenzie emphasized the importance of this legislation, saying, "We need to find a solution that ensures the safety of these most vulnerable children."

Addressing the serious issues arising from the federal illegal immigration crisis, Mackenzie introduced five bills aimed at addressing the situation in Pennsylvania. These proposals include requiring the use of the federal E-Verify system for all public contracts, notifying U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when an illegal immigrant attempts to purchase a firearm, ending sanctuary cities, improving the accuracy of voter registration records, and prohibiting noncitizens from voting in state and local elections.

Another legislative accomplishment Mackenzie highlighted was the unanimous passage of House Bill 358, which seeks to establish a new state program honoring Pennsylvania's fallen first responders. The Keystone First Responder Award would recognize public servants who were either killed or suffered a career-ending injury in the line of duty. Those eligible for the award include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, coroners, 911 dispatchers, and other first responders.

In addition to these achievements, Mackenzie also supported several pieces of legislation that have now been signed into law. Act 5 of 2023 improves access to maternal health and mortality data, addressing Pennsylvania's maternal mortality crisis. Act 7 of 2023 increases income limits for the state's Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program, providing relief to homeowners and renters. Lastly, Act 15 of 2023 provides emergency medical services companies with increased reimbursement rates, ensuring their sustainability.

Looking ahead to the work in the House during 2024, Representative Mackenzie expressed enthusiasm for the important tasks that lie ahead. "I am looking forward to the important work ahead of us in the House during 2024," he said.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Andy Briggs at 717-260-6474 or via email at abriggs@pahousegop.com. Representative Mackenzie's official website can be found at RepMackenzie.com, and he can also be reached on Facebook at Facebook.com/RepMackenzie.