Republican Regina Mauro is facing off against incumbent Democrat and Schuylkill Township resident Melissa Shusterman, 57, in the House of Representatives for the 157th District.
Each candidate was emailed the same questions and given 425 words to respond. Mauro did not return the questionnaire by deadline.
Melissa Shusterman, Democrat
Name a single problem facing the district you are running to represent and how you would address that issue if elected.
We have a responsibility to make certain that our district has the transportation infrastructure to move our critical workforce, senior citizens and those with different abilities in and through our area without delay or disruption via a continual investment in public transportation (buses, trains, Rovers) roads, bridges, and stormwater infrastructure.
The flip side of this issue is to invest in our care workers. Many care workers (childcare, homecare, direct support workers and nursing care) live outside of our district. Investing in Transportation supports this critical workforce.
What specific actions should the state Legislature take to make life more affordable for the people living in your district?
Here are specific ways the PA Legislature can help make life a little more affordable:
· Passing HB2536 will offer residents property tax relief and reform.
· This year’s budget included the largest investment in K-12 schools and that investment also offers property tax relief. The state level investment into schools should continue.
· Expanding and continuing the Childcare and Dependent Care Tax Credit. This helps working people with their care costs. This bill was authored by myself and Rep Davis and should continue to be a part of our State’s budget.
· Investing in public transportation will help people get to and from their jobs and loved ones. When we invest in public transportation we can reduce the number of cars people have per household
· Student Loan reform and relief and reform.
· Investing in affordable housing.
How will you gather feedback from the community regarding their needs and concerns?
For almost six years, my office has been receiving neighbors concerns over the phone, email and social media.
We also receive feedback when we go out into the community and host (townhalls, coffee chats, satellite office hours, community days, movie nights, veteran events, senior events, round tables, pet fairs and walk & talks).
These face to face interactions are opportunities to hear from the community and to address their needs and concerns through case work and legislation.
What inspired you to run for office?
I ran for public office so that I could represent women and make sure that they have the dignity and right to make their own reproductive decisions.
I also ran to represent our district’s children and secure a prosperous future for them. This is why I am passionate about education, community safety, affordable housing, civics, accessibility and mental health resources.
