PA State Rep. Martina White

05/29/2026

We've received reports of incoming calls purporting to be the Office of the Sheriff of Philadelphia. Scammers are alleging the person answering the call has missed jury duty. These claims are fraudulent.

If you are concerned, you can call the sheriff's office directly at 215-686-3560.

Learn more about these types of scams via the AARP website.
https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/jury-duty/

05/29/2026

Congratulations to Officer Stephen Cowdery (pictured with his wife) on being named Police Officer of the Year for the Seventh District!

Officer Cowdery is a 23-year veteran of the force whose colleagues say demonstrates exceptional professionalism, unwavering dependability and a steadfast commitment to public safety. He de-escalated a volatile situation involving an armed suspect in December 2025.

05/28/2026

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging is cautioning Medicare consumers about a scam involving cards. Medicare is not sending plastic cards. Report potential scams to 877-808-2468.

05/27/2026

I always enjoy Archbishop Ryan High School's visits to the Capitol. If you are seeking to schedule a group tour in Harrisburg, call my office at 717-787-6740.

05/25/2026

05/22/2026

The deadline for senior citizens and Pennsylvanians with disabilities to apply for rebates on rent and property taxes paid in 2025 has been 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 to Dec. 31.

Income limits for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program increased again this year to $48,110 for both homeowners and renters. Remember to exclude 50% of Social Security when determining your income. The maximum rebate is $1,000.

The program is open to residents age 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older.

05/20/2026

Congratulations to Jovin Shaji, a new Eagle Scout from Troop 18! Jovin restored a deck and replaced a railing at a house operated by Cradle of Hope for his service project. He's a very impressive young man with great things in his future.

05/19/2026

Today (Tuesday, May 19) is primary Election Day. Voters will have the opportunity to choose their party’s candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, U.S. House of Representatives, state House and Senate (in even-numbered senatorial districts), as well as state and local committee members.

Voters may cast their ballots in person at their local polling place. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additional information about in-person voting is available below or by calling the Philadelphia City Commissioners at 215-686-3464.

https://www.pa.gov/services/vote/find-your-local-polling-place

05/18/2026

A Pennsylvania law banning the use of handheld devices while driving has been in effect since last June, with violators being issued warnings. Starting June 6, violators will instead face fines.

The law limits the use of handheld cellphones or other communication devices while operating a motor vehicle. Effective June 6, violators will be issued a summary offense, which carries a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. If a driver is convicted of homicide by vehicle and driving while distracted, they may be sentenced up to an additional five years in prison.

Drivers can still use their phones if using hands-free technology, such as a docking station, Bluetooth or speaker technology. You may also use your phone to contact emergency responders.

According to PennDOT, more than 11,000 crashes were the result of distracted driving, leading to 65 deaths and 6,700 injuries in 2023.

05/13/2026

Per the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT):
Beginning on Tuesday, May 26, through Friday, June 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., a weekday lane closure with flagging will be in place on Byberry Road between Evans Street and Worthington Road for initial bridge construction activities, including tree clearing and grubbing.