Scanlon, Mary Gay RSS Articles

Congresswoman Scanlon Conducts Unannounced Oversight Visit to Moshannon Valley Processing Center, Largest ICE Detention Center in Northeast

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Chester, PA — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) this week conducted an unannounced Congressional oversight visit inside Moshannon Valley Processing Center, the largest ICE detention center in the Northeast. After a roughly 30 minute wait, Rep. Scanlon gained entry to the facility and was provided a tour of the Moshannon facility by ICE and GEO administrators for 3 hours. With one exception, she was not allowed to speak with detainees.

The visit occurred without prior notice to ICE after a March 2 court order blocked ICE actions to restrict access to detention facilities by Members of Congress and reaffirmed their legal right to conduct unannounced oversight visits to those facilities.

Moshannon Valley Processing Center is a former prison owned and operated by private prison contractor, GEO Group, and now used solely for immigration detention. While reports of poor conditions at Moshannon have circulated for years, they have dramatically increased since the start of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation efforts, including a hunger strike, reports of inadequate medical care and neglect, allegations of sexual assault, and two detainee deaths.

“The American people are entitled to know how their tax dollars are being spent. Given the billions of dollars in deficit spending that Congressional Republicans and the Trump White House are devoting to mass deportation, it is more important than ever that Congress conduct oversight of ICE and DHS operations to find out how those taxpayer dollars are being spent, and ensure that people being held in custody by the United States government are treated humanely,” said Rep. Scanlon. “Following numerous reports of unsafe living conditions, subpar medical care, and two deaths at this private prison facility, in which dozens of my community members and constituents have been detained against their will, it would be irresponsible not to inspect conditions at Moshannon firsthand. GEO charges us millions of dollars every month to detain people at Moshannon. Taxpayer dollars should be spent to improve the lives of Americans, not to inflict misery and make private prison contractors rich.”

Rep. Scanlon summarized her key takeaways as follows:

Administrators reported that the population at Moshannon during the visit was 1,634 — consistent with increased detention numbers across the country as ICE arrests have escalated in June and July 2026.
Officials at Moshannon indicated that 1,311 of the 1,634 individuals detained at the time of the visit were considered low-security. ICE’s FY2026 statistics confirm that the vast majority (8 out of 10) of people detained at Moshannon have no criminal record.
Only 46 (less than 3%) of detainees were women. This aligns with reports that ICE is targeting male breadwinners for detention in order to pressure self-deportation by entire family units (including children who are U.S. citizens).
The average stay at Moshannon was reported by administrators to be 34 days; current online statistics from ICE list a higher (46 days) average stay.
While ICE and GEO officials on site said that they did not know or could not disclose how much ICE pays GEO to operate the facility at Moshannon, public reporting indicates that GEO is receiving over $5.3 million per month, consisting of a monthly management fee of at least $3.4 million and an additional fee of $10 per person per day up to 800 detainees, and $40 per person per day for over 800 detainees. This fee structure provides a perverse incentive for private prisons to prolong detention. GEO Group representatives also confirmed that it charges the government additional fees for its expanding private transportation services.
If one prorates GEO’s monthly fees as reported for May 2025, before the most recent surge, it is costing taxpayers $43,741 per year to detain someone at Moshannon, which is about what it costs to send a student to Penn State University nearby for a year.
Moshannon Valley Processing Center is a former prison, and is run using prison practices. Detained individuals are required to wear color-coded prison garb and eat in their living quarters. There are severe constraints upon their liberty and their ability to contact family and anyone outside the facility.
By law, immigration detention is supposed to be a form of civil process, not criminal punishment, meaning the system is supposed to be used to manage flight or safety risks and ensure that people attend their court hearings. What detained individuals experience at Moshannon could not be described as anything other than punitive — at best.
Detainees must perform most of the labor at the facility where they are being involuntarily held, including cleaning showers, toilets, and living quarters, and supplying the majority of labor for food service and laundry. Only two full-time janitors service the entire facility, which has a capacity of more than 1,800 people. While GEO and ICE say that such labor is “voluntary,” an administrator acknowledged that these core functions could not be performed without detainee labor. By using detainee labor, rather than hiring employees or contractors at market rates, the private contractor increases its profits.
Many detainees avoid the institutional meals which administrators said are prepared to meet correctional facility caloric and nutrition standards. Due to poor food quality, detainees have initiated two hunger strike protests this year and rely upon food such as ramen noodles purchased from the facility’s commissary, using funds sent to them by friends or relatives. The Congresswoman saw such prepackaged food in the living quarters. She was provided with a lunch tray in the dining hall, which detainees cannot use, but was unable to compare it to what detainees were served.
While the facility denies using solitary confinement for punishment, its “Special Management Unit” currently has 29 detainees in single cells, separate from the general population. The physical setup of the unit, and admissions by management that some detainees were assigned there for infraction of facility rules, at least partially confirmed reports of abuse of solitary confinement standards. All cells were occupied by only one person. Some were on suicide watch. One had been held there for 220 days. Daily recreation for residents of that unit takes place in a cement block hall containing chain link cages in which “natural light and fresh air” is provided by 1’ x 3’ openings in the wall about 12 feet above floor level.

During her visit to Moshannon Valley Processing Center, Rep. Scanlon was able to speak with one of her constituents who had previously completed an ICE Privacy Waiver that authorizes the release of information to a third party, including a Congressional office. Moshannon administrators barred the Congresswoman from speaking with other detainees, which made it difficult to assess their actual treatment and conditions.

The July 29 visit follows an August 2025 visit to Moshannon, when Rep. Scanlon was denied entry under orders of former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and her January 2026 oversight visit to Philadelphia Federal Detention Center, which serves as a temporary holding facility for individuals detained in the area before they are transferred to Moshannon or elsewhere.

Rep. Scanlon, who is a member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, has previously visited a detention center and migrant shelter in Texas, ports of entry on both the northern and southern borders, and a family detention center in Berks County, PA, which has since been closed.

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Scanlon, Thompson Introduce Legislation to Protect Grandfamilies Affected by Substance Misuse

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) today introduced the bipartisan Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act, legislation that would strengthen support for grandfamilies and other kinship caregivers by ensuring they have access to the services and resources they need to help children thrive. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have introduced the Senate companion bill.

Nearly 2.5 million children are being raised in kinship families or “grandfamilies” by relatives or close family friends without their parents in the home, and the vast majority of these children are raised outside of the foster care system. For every child in foster care living with relatives, there are 18 being raised by relatives outside of the foster care system. Kinship caregivers often receive little or no support to meet the complex needs of children, especially those who have experienced trauma, and are left to navigate complicated child welfare support systems on their own.

“Navigating the child welfare system can be a stressful experience for children and caregivers already experiencing hardship, especially grandfamilies,” said Rep. Scanlon. “It’s important that we abolish systemic barriers that prevent all children and families from successfully navigating the child welfare system. I’m proud to introduce the Help Grandfamilies Prevent Abuse Act to set up children and families for brighter futures.”

"Stability is the foundation for a child's quality of life and future success. For many children, this stability is found in the care of a grandparent or kinship caregiver who can provide a safe and loving home," said Rep. Thompson. "I am proud to support the Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act to ensure these caregivers and children have access to the services they need."

The Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act would:

Ensure that grandfamilies and all kinship families are eligible for services under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA).
Provide additional support to these families to meet the unique needs of children who have experienced trauma, including being exposed to substance misuse.
Call for specialized training to help kinship caregivers navigate the complicated supports and services they may be eligible to receive.
Coordinate with the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center that Congress created to disseminate information on best practices used to support children being raised in kinship families within or outside of the child welfare system.

The bill is endorsed by the National Foster Youth Institute and Generations United.

“The National Foster Youth Institute proudly supports the Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act because it reflects what young people with lived experience have shared with us for years: kinship caregivers should be the first stop and are often the reason children remain connected to their family, culture, identity, and community, yet too many are left to do it without the support they need,” said Cortez L. Carey, Director of Government Relations at the National Foster Youth Institute. “We believe preserving those cultural connections is essential to a child's well-being. By investing in grandparents, relatives, and other trusted caregivers, this legislation strengthens families, honors cultural preservation, and helps more children heal, thrive, and have a support system beyond the age of 18.”

“Grandparents and other kin caregivers often step in during a family crisis to keep children safe, connected, and surrounded by people they know and trust. Yet the systems intended to support families do not always fully recognize or respond to the circumstances of kinship families,” said Kristen Kiefer, Executive Director of Generations United. “The Help Grandfamilies Prevent Child Abuse Act makes important, practical improvements to CAPTA by more clearly including kinship families in prevention services, caregiver training, and supports for children who have experienced trauma. Generations United is pleased to endorse this legislation again, and we thank Congresswoman Scanlon and the bill’s sponsors for their continued attention to the needs of kinship families."

Find the full bill text here.

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Scanlon, Dingell, Simon, Durbin, Duckworth, Wyden, Sanders Lead 100 Members of Congress in Calling on DOJ to Rescind Opinion Undermining Olmstead

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Reps. Debbie Dingell (MI-06) and Lateefah Simon (CA-12), and Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL); Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee; Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions today led 100 Members of Congress in a letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche calling on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to rescind its June 18 Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) opinion that undermines decades of protections for disability rights that have ensured people with disabilities are not arbitrarily placed in segregated, institutionalized settings and instead can access services in integrated settings within their communities. The push comes in the middle of Disability Pride Month to celebrate disability identity and advocate for full inclusion in everyday life. DOJ’s opinion, titled “Application of the Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act to State Institutionalization of Patients with Severe Mental Illness or Disabilities,” would undermine both the scope and enforcement of the integration mandate under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

“The opinion represents a dramatic departure from decades of federal law, regulations, and judicial precedent protecting the civil rights of people with all types of disabilities and must be withdrawn,” the lawmakers wrote.

In enacting the ADA, Congress explicitly found that “historically, society has tended to isolate and segregate individuals with disabilities” and determined that such segregation constitutes a serious and pervasive form of discrimination. The ADA was designed not merely to prohibit intentional exclusion, but to ensure that people with disabilities have meaningful opportunities to live, work, learn, and participate fully in community life as full members of their communities.

In 1999, the Supreme Court affirmed these principles in Olmstead v. L.C., holding that unjustified institutional isolation of individuals with disabilities is discrimination under the ADA. The Court recognized that institutionalization perpetuates harmful stereotypes about the capabilities of people with disabilities and severely diminishes opportunities for family relationships, employment, economic independence, educational advancement, and participation in community life.

“For more than 25 years, federal courts across the country, Republican and Democratic administrations alike, the Department of Justice, and Congress have interpreted and implemented the Olmstead decision to require states and public entities to provide services in integrated settings when appropriate,” the lawmakers wrote. “This long-accepted interpretation has enabled hundreds of thousands of Americans with disabilities to avoid harmful and unnecessary institutionalization and remain connected to their families, schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and chosen communities.”

The lawmakers’ letter continues, “The Department’s recent opinion rejects this settled understanding and threatens to undermine one of the most important civil rights protections for people with disabilities. Notably, the opinion itself acknowledges that its interpretation is ‘out of step with common understanding of that decision within Federal courts.’ Such an admission should give serious pause before the Department reverses decades of enforcement efforts or undertakes further regulatory actions. In order to protect the civil rights of disabled people, DOJ must meaningfully enforce the integration mandate.”

The consequences of weakening the integration mandate would be profound. Millions of Americans with disabilities rely on home and community-based services supporting them to be among their families, maintain employment, pursue education, and participate in civic life. The Department’s new interpretation risks creating, supporting, and encouraging policies that steer individuals into segregated settings such as nursing homes, psychiatric facilities, segregated work programs, and segregated classrooms. Such a result would be inconsistent with federal law, contrary to congressional intent, and harmful to people with disabilities and their families.

“We cannot return to a time when people with disabilities were denied basic civil rights, ripped away from their families, and institutionalized against their will. The disability community has spent decades advancing the promise that disability should never be grounds for exclusion from community life. The integration mandate is a cornerstone of that promise, and weakening it would reverse decades of bipartisan progress,” the lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers’ letter concludes, “The integration mandate has transformed the lives of countless Americans with disabilities by expanding access to community living, employment, education, and self-determination. We urge the Department to honor both the letter and spirit of the ADA by rescinding this opinion and reaffirming its commitment to the civil rights of people with disabilities.”

In the letter, the lawmakers request responses to a number of questions no later than August 5, 2026.

Along with Scanlon, Dingell, and Simon, the letter is signed by Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ-03), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05), André Carson (D-IN-07), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-37), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Steven Horsford (D-NV-04), Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-18), Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), John Mannion (D-NY-22), Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), Sarah McBride (D-DE), April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Christian Menefee (D-TX-18), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

Along with Durbin, Duckworth, Wyden, and Sanders, the letter is signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

The letter is endorsed by Justice in Aging, Caring Across Generations, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, The Arc, and American Civil Liberties Union.

Find the full text of the letter here.

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Scanlon Introduces Legislation to Expand Social Security Survivor Benefits for Widowers and Surviving Divorced Spouses

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today introduced the Surviving Widow(er) Income Fair Treatment (SWIFT) Act, legislation that would update arbitrary restrictions on benefits for widow(er)s and surviving divorced spouses, and increase Social Security benefits for more than one million Americans. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Senate companion bill.

Under current law, widow(er)s who develop a disability after their spouse dies are not allowed to claim survivor benefits until they reach the age of 50, and the value of these benefits is severely reduced if they claim them before reaching full retirement age. More than one-third of widow(er)s also have their benefits limited by an obscure provision known as the “widow(er)’s limit,” which permanently reduces widow(er)s’ survivor benefits if their deceased spouse claimed retirement benefits before retirement age.

“Social Security has been a critical and essential lifeline for retired, disabled, and low-income workers for decades,” said Rep. Scanlon. “Obscure benefit caps and outdated arbitrary legal restrictions have created obstacles for beneficiaries, particularly women, during some of the most vulnerable periods in their lives. I’m proud to introduce the SWIFT Act to tackle those barriers and increase Social Security benefits for deserving Americans in need.”

The Surviving Widow(er) Income Fair Treatment (SWIFT) Act would:

Allow widow(er)s and surviving divorced spouses with disabilities to receive 100% of the survivor benefit they are entitled to regardless of their age;
Give widow(er)s and surviving divorced spouses the ability to increase the value of their survivor benefits beyond current arbitrary caps;
Enable widow(er)s and surviving divorced spouses caring for children to receive child-in-care benefits until their children are age 18 or 19 if still in school; and
Require the federal government to proactively provide information to widow(er)s and surviving divorced spouses about benefits they are eligible for, claiming options, and important deadlines.

The bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-11), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Chellie Pingree (ME-01).

The bill is endorsed by the National Committee To Preserve Social Security and Medicare, Social Security Works, National Association of Disability Representatives, Strengthen Social Security Coalition, Alliance for Retired Americans, Justice in Aging, and AFL-CIO.

Find the full bill text here.

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Scanlon Opposes the Sunshine Protection Act, Promotes the Sunshine for Our Kids Act

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

“If we're going to make a permanent change that affects every American, we should follow the science, learn from history, and prioritize Americans' health, particularly that of our children.”

WATCH Rep. Scanlon’s floor remarks.

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) this week spoke on the House floor about the Sunshine Protection Act, the bill that would make daylight saving time permanent. Citing the risks of this decision, Scanlon discussed her bill, the Sunshine for Our Kids Act, which would make standard time permanent instead.

While the Sunshine Protection Act eventually passed the House 308-117, its fate in the Senate remains unclear. Opposition in the Senate cites late sunrises in the winter as detrimental to public health and safety, particularly for school-age children.

Below are Rep. Scanlon’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, during Tuesday’s floor debate.

“Thank you.

As I think we can all tell from the ensuing debate here, there are serious issues that this body needs to be wrestling with, but the Speaker has chosen to put on the floor this week H.R. 139, a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent.

So, I think there's one thing everyone in this chamber can agree on: Americans do not like changing their clocks twice a year. So, the big question isn't whether we should ditch the switch. It's how. And unfortunately, the bill that the Speaker has chosen chooses the wrong solution by making daylight saving time permanent nationwide, while denying states the right to enact permanent standard time if they so choose, not if, but when they discover that Congress made the wrong choice.

We can all understand the appeal of an extra hour of sunlight in the summer, but permanent daylight saving time comes with serious health and safety concerns caused by even darker winter mornings.

If this bill becomes law, winter mornings across the country are going to look very different. Millions of Americans will wake up during the winter months in complete darkness, with the sun not rising until long after people get up and travel to school or work, or have to go about their days.

In much of upstate and northern New York, communities won't see the sunrise until well after 8:30 a.m.

In Michigan, it will be close to nine before the sun comes up, and in parts of the Pacific Northwest, sunrise will be pushed even later than 9 a.m.

In many parts of the country, children will be waiting for school buses in darkness. Parents will be driving to work before sunrise. Morning commuters, students, and pedestrians will be starting their day in the dark. Not because of the seasons, but because Congress decided to move the clock instead of following the sun.

We don't have to speculate about what would happen under permanent daylight saving time. We already tried it.

During the 1974 energy crisis, Congress made daylight saving time permanent in a failed attempt to save energy.

It lasted less than a year. Families found themselves sending their kids to school in the dark, and there were a rash of fatal crashes involving school children. Communities raised serious safety concerns, and public support, which initially was quite strong, quickly collapsed. Congress repealed the policy within months.

The science has only become clearer since then.

Medical and scientific experts have endorsed the move to permanent standard time because permanent daylight saving time disrupts our natural circadian rhythms, the internal clocks that regulate when we sleep and wake.

That disruption has been linked to higher rates of heart disease, stroke, chronic sleep deprivation, and other adverse health concerns. And these bad outcomes are even more serious and long-lasting than the sleep deprivation, traffic accidents, and heart attacks that follow the twice-yearly changes that we currently have.

I've also heard directly from my constituents. Like most Americans, they're ready to ditch the switch.

But when I asked which permanent system they would prefer if they had to choose, the clear preference was for standard time. And a Gallup poll last year found that Americans preferred permanent standard time to permanent daylight saving time 2 to 1.

That's why I've introduced the bipartisan Sunshine for Our Kids Act with Representative Pat Harrigan from North Carolina. Our bill would end the clock changes and make standard time the national default. But importantly, it would also allow for states to adopt permanent daylight saving time through state law if they choose.

If we're going to make a permanent change that affects every American, we should follow the science, learn from history, and prioritize Americans' health, particularly that of our children.

That's why I urge a no vote on the rule and on H.R. 139.

I yield back.”

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Scanlon Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Make Standard Time Permanent Default For Stronger Youth Development and Increased Public Safety

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today introduced the Sunshine for Our Kids Act, legislation to restore permanent Standard Time nationwide. The bill would end the annual switch to Daylight Saving Time in most of the country, and make Standard Time, the time we currently use between November and March, the default year-round. The bill is a bipartisan effort with Rep. Pat Harrigan (NC-10) as a co-lead.

At present, two states use Standard Time year-round, and no state uses Daylight Saving Time year-round. While this legislation would default all states to permanent Standard Time, it does allow for states to institute permanent Daylight Saving Time through state law if they so choose. A brief national experiment with year-round Daylight Saving Time in 1974 was quickly abandoned amid widespread public dissatisfaction.

The biannual switch between Standard Time and Daylight Saving Time has been shown to pose significant public health and safety risks, including increased motor vehicle accidents, cardiovascular events, and mood disorders each time the switch occurs. While there is widespread public agreement that the twice-yearly clock switch needs to end, proposals to enact year-round Daylight Saving Time carry additional medical risks.

“For decades, scientists and medical professionals have highlighted the detrimental mental and physical health impacts of twice-a-year clock changes, particularly on children and teens,” said Rep. Scanlon. “The Sunshine for Our Kids Act will not only help children and teens during the most important years for mental and physical development, but will also promote public health and safety in our communities.”

“It's hard to find anyone who enjoys changing the clocks twice a year, yet Americans have been stuck with the same outdated policy for decades,” said Rep. Harrigan. “The Sunshine for Our Kids Act replaces that one-size-fits-all mandate with a smarter approach by making standard time the default while allowing states to decide what works best for their own communities.”

The medical community is in agreement that the country should switch away from moving our clocks forward and backward each year, and believes a switch to permanent Standard Time to align with our natural circadian rhythms would be the best possible solution. By switching to permanent Standard Time, Americans across the country will experience improved sleep and brain function, better physical and mental health, and greater safety as a result.

The bill is endorsed by American Academy of Sleep Medicine, National Sleep Foundation, Save Standard Time, American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST), the Society for Research in Biological Rhythms (SRBR) and the Coalition for Permanent Standard Time.

“Permanent standard time is the healthier choice for all Americans,” said Dr. Abbasi-Fienberg, President of American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “We are grateful to Congresswoman Scanlon for championing legislation that puts health and safety first and helps ensure that mornings are better aligned with natural light and human circadian rhythms.”

“Permanent standard time will lead to a healthier, safer, and more productive America,” said Dr. Karin Johnson and Jay Pea, co-chairs of Coalition for Permanent Standard Time. “Natural standard time has a proven track record of improving public health, student performance, and economic output. Permanent standard time ends the harms of clock changes while best aligning with human circadian biology. By ensuring adequate morning light, standard time reduces the risks associated with circadian misalignment, sleep loss, and unsafe dark morning commutes.”

Find the full bill text here.

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Scanlon, Warren Introduce Legislation to Ban Sale of Americans’ Health and Location Data

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today introduced the Health and Location Data Protection Act, a bill that would ban data brokers from selling or transferring Americans’ health and location data. Joining Rep. Scanlon as co-leads for the House bill are Reps. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Rashdia Tlaib (MI-12).

Largely unregulated by federal law, data brokers gather personal information, such as location data and search history, through unassuming sources like weather or prayer apps, often without the consumer’s consent or knowledge. That data is then sold in bulk for massive profits to any willing buyer. Data gathered and sold by brokers has been used to circumvent the Fourth Amendment, out LGBTQ+ Americans, and stalk and harass individuals. Some brokers have been caught selling cell phone-based location data of people visiting abortion clinics, risking the safety and security of women seeking basic healthcare. In a post-Dobbs world, the need for strong privacy protections is more urgent than ever.

“Americans deserve to know that their most sensitive and personal information is safe, not exploited for profit,” said Rep. Scanlon. “As extremist Republicans attempt to criminalize or ban abortion and other critical, life-saving healthcare, we need to rein in this invasion of Americans’ privacy with a clear set of rules and standards to prevent profiting off of highly personal and sensitive data without consumer consent. I’m proud to lead the Health and Location Data Protection Act to stop data-brokers from profiting off Americans' vulnerabilities."

“It's more important than ever that we crack down on data brokers that are raking in giant profits from selling Americans’ most sensitive information,” said Senator Warren. “Especially as more people enter their private health data into AI, we need to make sure that information isn't exploited by the highest bidder."

The Health and Location Data Protection Act would:

Ban data brokers from selling or transferring location data and health data, and require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to promulgate rules to implement the law within 180 days while making exceptions for HIPAA-compliant activities, protected First Amendment speech, and validly authorized disclosures.
Ensure robust enforcement of the bill’s provisions by empowering the FTC, state attorneys general, and injured persons to sue to enforce the provisions of the law.
Provide $1 billion in funding to the Federal Trade Commission over the next decade to carry out its work, including the enforcement of this law.

"Three years after Dobbs, the threat to Americans' privacy has only grown -- and data brokers are still profiting off it,” said Rep. Velázquez. “From health records to location data to information people enter into AI systems, the most sensitive details of our lives remain up for sale. I'm proud to join Rep. Scanlon and Senator Warren in reintroducing the Health and Location Data Protection Act to put a stop to these dangerous practices."

“Your private data should be just that, private,” said Rep. Jayapal. “This is especially the case with health and location data. In a post-Dobbs world, women should not have to worry about data brokers buying and sharing information about them seeking healthcare at abortion clinics. It is time to stop these corporations from selling this information to the government to circumvent the Fourth Amendment. That’s why I’m proud to be joining Congresswoman Scanlon to lead the Health and Location Data Protection Act to create clear and enforceable rules to protect Americans’ privacy.”

The bill is endorsed by National Partnership for Women & Families, Reproductive Freedom for All, All* Above All, Guttmacher Institute, National Network of Abortion Funds, National Council of Jewish Women, and URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity.

“Four years since Roe v. Wade was overturned, people’s sensitive information, including location data, is being used to surveil their health and pregnancy outcomes,” said Nima Sheth, Vice President of Health Justice at the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Especially as data brokers operate in the wild west of unregulated AI and a patchwork of data privacy laws, it’s critical to put a stop to them selling our sensitive information. This bill helps ensure that our location data and information from apps and other devices do not land in the hands of those who can compromise our safety and freedom. Our personal data—and our dignity and autonomy—is not for sale. National Partnership for Women & Families thanks Congresswoman Scanlon and Senator Warren for introducing this bill.”

"Every person deserves the freedom to make decisions about their own body without fear that their private health information could be used to criminalize, surveil, or discriminate against them for just visiting a doctor or provider. Protecting health data is an essential part of health care and a prerequisite for true bodily autonomy,” said Nourbese Flint, President of All* Above All. “The Health and Data Protection Act recognizes that our most sensitive health information, including information about pregnancy, miscarriage, fertility treatment, abortion care, contraception, and gender-affirming care, should never be bought, sold, or weaponized. At All* Above All, we believe everyone should be able to access the health care they need with dignity, safety, and confidence that their personal information will remain private. We applaud lawmakers for advancing legislation that puts people before profits and strengthens critical protections for patients at a time when they are needed most."

“Data security is a Reproductive Justice issue,” says Poonam Dreyfus-Pai, Interim Executive Director of the National Network of Abortion Funds. “Accessing abortion is already difficult enough, and abortion funds and abortion seekers should not have to worry that private health information is being sold to the highest bidder. Abortion seekers and the people who support them deserve strong data protections, not surveillance, criminalization, and punishment.”

Find the full bill text here.

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Scanlon, Thompson, Friedman Introduce Legislation to Prevent Pedestrian Fatalities and Make Streets Safer for All Road Users

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04), and Rep. Laura Friedman (CA-30) today introduced the Pedestrian Protection Act to address the rapid rise in pedestrian fatalities related to increased SUV and pickup truck size, by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to develop vehicle safety standards to protect pedestrians, bicyclists, and vulnerable road users. The bill would implement standards for dangerous features like vehicle height and hood and bumper design, and a minimum visibility standard to reduce blind zones.

Over the past 15 years, pedestrian deaths resulting from car crashes have risen by 80 percent. During this period, many popular vehicle models in the United States have become larger, higher, heavier, and include more blunt features. A growing body of research demonstrates the link between SUVs and pickups with these design features and increased risk for pedestrians, especially children. Larger vehicles have reduced driver visibility, leading to higher rates of crashes with pedestrians, including cyclists and children.

“As cars and pickup trucks have become bigger and heavier, we are seeing pedestrian fatalities reach historic highs, and newer vehicles often leave drivers unable to fully see their surroundings, including pedestrians, children, and bicyclists,” said Rep. Scanlon. “With larger, heavier, higher vehicles becoming more popular in the United States, we cannot ignore the growing body of research that links such vehicles to increased risk for pedestrians. I’m proud to introduce the Pedestrian Protection Act to push for vehicle safety and visibility standards to address these risks and design flaws and prioritize the safety of our children and families.”

“The large, square hoods of modern SUVs and trucks have created dangerous blind spots for drivers, and these kinds of vehicles are 45 percent more likely to kill a pedestrian in a crash. That’s why I’m co-leading this bill with Rep. Scanlon to improve vehicle safety standards and establish a minimum visibility standard for cars to reduce blind spots and to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and everyone else on the road,” said Rep. Mike Thompson, Co-Chair, Congressional Bike Caucus.

"Pedestrians, especially kids, are paying the price for cars that weren't designed with their safety in mind," said Rep. Laura Friedman (CA-30). "With pedestrian deaths up 80 percent in 15 years, the Pedestrian Protection Act is a commonsense fix that finally puts safety first. I'm proud to co-lead this effort with Congresswoman Scanlon to keep families safe, because every Angeleno and every American deserves to get home safely."

The bill is endorsed by Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, America Walks, Center for Auto Safety, Kids and Car Safety, League of American Bicyclists, and the National Safety Council.

“America’s vehicles are getting larger and heavier every year, contributing to greater risk of death or injury for pedestrians, bicyclists, and everyone else on the road,” said Michael Brooks, Executive Director, Center for Auto Safety. “Congresswoman Scanlon’s Pedestrian Protection Act addresses this growing problem, requiring the development of safety standards to improve pedestrian crashworthiness, while incentivizing automakers to improve vehicle designs and visibility to prevent these crashes from occurring.”

“Every person should be able to walk, bike, roll or cross the street safely. Yet, this isn’t always the case; 7,080 pedestrians and 1,103 bicyclists were killed in 2024, and thousands more were injured. Vehicles with large blind zones result in poor visibility and vehicles with heavy weights increase the risk of death or serious injury,” said Catherine Chase, President of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “The Pedestrian Protection Act would help address these preventable hazards by establishing new safety standards on vehicle design and minimum visibility standards as well as enhancing consumer safety information. We commend Reps. Mary Gay Scanlon, Mike Thompson, and Laura Friedman for introducing this commonsense legislation and urge Congress to advance it to better protect vulnerable road users.”

“Far too many children, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users are being seriously injured or killed by vehicles that were never designed with their safety in mind. As vehicles have become larger, taller, and heavier, the risks to people outside the vehicle have grown significantly. The Pedestrian Protection Act takes a commonsense approach by directing safety regulators to evaluate how vehicle design impacts those most at risk and to establish meaningful safety standards that can save lives. Every family deserves to know that their child can walk, bike, play, and travel through their community without facing unnecessary danger from preventable vehicle design hazards,” said Amber Rollins, Executive Director, Kids and Car Safety.

"The number of people killed outside vehicles is skyrocketing in America, driven by the rise of oversized SUVs and trucks with poor visibility and dangerous designs. This is a preventable crisis, and we have the power to change it,” said Mike McGinn, Executive Director of America Walks. “The Pedestrian Protection Act puts the solution within reach. By pushing for safer vehicle design standards and adopting life-saving technologies, it directly addresses the reasons so many people outside of cars are injured or killed. Everyone crossing the street deserves to get home alive."

“At a time when pedestrian deaths account for 18% of all traffic fatalities, protecting these vulnerable road users is paramount to ending the ongoing crisis on our roadways,” said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council. “The Pedestrian Protection Act would improve safety by directing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to develop and implement standards designed to keep those outside the vehicle safe. The National Safety Council applauds Representatives Scanlon, Thompson, and Friedman for reintroducing this lifesaving legislation and urges Congress to support it.”

“After a traffic crash we often hear ‘I just didn't see them.’ People assume bigger cars give them better visibility, when in reality it may mean they are less likely to see a pedestrian right in front of them, even a child in a crosswalk. In crashes, larger cars also put people outside of cars at risk for more serious injuries or death. The Pedestrian Protection Act takes steps towards safety standards and consumer education around vehicle size and blindspots. It is a critical bill that can reduce the heartache of pedestrians, their families, and the drivers who never meant to harm them,” said Bill Nesper, Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists.

Find the full bill text here.

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Statement from Congresswoman Scanlon on Republican Reconciliation Bill

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today released the following statement on Republicans’ reconciliation bill:

“Today, House Republicans joined their Senate counterparts to pass a partisan budget bill that turbocharges corrupt immigration enforcement, at the expense of Americans’ civil rights and economic security.

Last summer, with the passage of their Bill Ugly Bill, Republicans handed ICE and CBP $170 billion while slashing healthcare and nutrition support for millions of Americans. ICE has spent only $70 billion of that amount, yet our Republican colleagues just voted to send them $70 billion more.

As the abuses of this administration’s immigration enforcement mounted, and were laid bare - to the country, and the world - with the chaos and violence inflicted on American communities by armed and masked federal agents, as law abiding neighbors were detained and deported without due process or humanity, as families were torn apart, and American citizens were killed on our city street by federal agents, Democrats demanded that the responsible agencies be reined in and reformed. Republicans refused to enact any reforms, and chose to send even more money to the rogue agencies.

Republicans also rejected our amendments to ban the President’s use of taxpayer dollars to create a slush fund to cut checks for his allies, whether cop beaters and conspiracists, Proud Boys and pedophiles, or insurrectionists and election deniers.

All of this is happening while gas prices are skyrocketing because of the President’s illegal war in Iran, and life is completely unaffordable for hardworking Americans. Instead of funding ICE and CBP, we should be funding healthcare and bringing down everyday costs.

The American people deserve a hell of a lot better from Congress.”

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Statement from Congresswoman Scanlon on Passage of War Powers Resolution

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today released the following statement after the House passed a War Powers Resolution:

"Last night, the House passed a War Powers Resolution to rein in Donald Trump’s illegal war against Iran. This resolution directs the President to end military actions against Iran unless Congress authorizes it. I was proud to vote in favor of this resolution because I know how detrimental this poorly conceived and executed war has been for the American people.

We are facing a cost of living crisis in the United States, and instead of working to lower costs for hardworking families, the President has spent the last 95 days waging an illegal and expensive war which has significantly undermined our national and economic security. Trump’s war is costing taxpayers over $1 billion a day; while Americans are seeing gas prices skyrocket and inflation soar.

Article I of the Constitution makes clear that Congress is the only governing body with the authority to declare war. President Trump’s actions have not been authorized under the Constitution, nor do they have the best interests of the American people in mind.

I am grateful for this critical first step in reinstating Congress’s role in waging war. We must keep the pressure on to end US military action in Iran and bring down costs for the American people.”

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Town Hall with State Representatives Borowski & O’Mara

Tue, 26 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

I am hosting a joint town hall with State Representatives Borowski and O’Mara to give you the latest updates on what is happening in Washington and Harrisburg. We’ll also take questions from attendees.

Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Time: 6:30PM (Doors Open at 6:00PM)

Location: Delaware County Community College - Academic Building, Large Auditorium || 901 S. Media Line Road, Media, PA 19063

This event has reached capacity. Registration is now closed.

Office Hours with Congresswoman Scanlon

Tue, 05 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon for Office Hours at her district office in Chester. Congresswoman Scanlon wants to hear from constituents like you about how she can best represent PA-05 in Washington. You'll also have the chance to learn more about services available through the office and meet district staff who work on constituent services.

Advance registration is required due to limited capacity and security protocol. Entry is not guaranteed for anyone who has not registered in advance.

Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm (Sign Up for One of Three 30-Minute Timeslots)
Location: 2501 Seaport Drive, Chester, PA 19013

**Space is limited and advance registration is required. RSVP here or contact my Chester office at (610) 626-2020.**

Town Hall

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

On Saturday, January 24 at 2:00PM, I am hosting a town hall in Chester to give you an update on the latest actions of the Trump administration, what’s happening in Congress, and how I’m fighting for PA-05 families.

Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Event Time: 2:00 PM (Doors open at 1:30 PM)
Location: Widener University - Alumni Auditorium || 1410-1490 Providence Avenue, Chester, PA 19013
Parking: Attendees can park in any of Widener University’s open lots or utilize street parking in non-residential zones. A campus map showing all parking lots and the event venue (Alumni Auditorium) is available here.

**RSVP here or contact the Chester office at (610) 626-2020.

Advance registration is required. Once the venue has reached capacity, no additional attendees will be admitted.

Government Shutdown Telephone Town Hall

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, October 2, I am hosting a telephone town hall to give you an update on the government shutdown and answer your questions about how I'm fighting for PA-05 families.

Dial 855-274-3980 on Thursday, October 2, at 6:00 pm to listen in and ask a question.

Passport Day with Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon and the Philadelphia Passport Agency

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:30:00 GMT

My office is hosting a “Passport Day” in partnership with the Philadelphia Passport Agency to make the passport renewal and application process more convenient for you. You’ll be able to submit your passport renewal application or apply for the first time. Routine and expedited service options are offered based on current State Department timelines.

Please note that this will be an acceptance only event. Completed passport booklets will not be issued at this event, you will receive your passport in the mail. No same-day service available.

Date: Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Time: 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Location: Brookhaven Municipal Center, 2 Cambridge Rd, Brookhaven, PA 19015

All appointments for this event are currently booked. Please call our Chester office at (610) 626-2020 to be added to our wait list.

Come Prepared:

You must complete the required application(s) in advance and bring a printed copy of the unsigned form(s) to your appointment. Application forms can be found online at travel.state.gov/passport.
You must bring an acceptable passport photo to your appointment.
You must submit original proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad). These documents will be returned by mail after your passport is processed.
You must bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or photo ID.
For children’s passport applications, proof of the parent-child relationship is required, such as a birth certificate. A previous passport for a minor only serves as proof of citizenship and does not verify the relationship. Consent from both parents/guardians is also required. More information is available here.
All application fees must be paid on-site at your appointment.

Check travel.state.gov/passport for the latest forms, fees, and required documents.

Current Passport Processing Times:

Routine: 4 to 6 weeks
Expedited: 2 to 3 weeks (with an extra $60 fee)

Current Fees:

New Passport: $130
Passport Renewal: $130
Child’s Passport (16 and under): $100
Execution Fee (Applied to first time passport applicants and those not eligible for renewal, Form DS-11): $35
Expedited Service: $60
Express Mail for Completed Passport: $22.05

To find out your anticipated total fees, check the Passport Fee Calculator prior to your appointment.

Acceptable Payment Types:

Check
Money Order
Credit Card
Tap to Pay

**Cash will NOT be accepted.**

Service Academy Info Session

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon’s staff and representatives from military organizations to learn more about the resources available for high school students in PA-05 interested in serving their country. Information will be provided about the application process for receiving a congressional nomination to one of the U.S. service academies, as well as other paths to service available to interested young people.

Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Valley Forge Military Academy & College (Mellon Hall) - 1001 Eagle Rd, Wayne, PA 19087
Parking: Onsite parking is available.

Please note: this is the last Service Academy Information Session that the office will host for 2025.

*RSVP here or call the Chester office at (610) 626-2020 no later than Tuesday, September 16.*

Coffee With Your Congresswoman

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 21:30:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon for coffee and conversation. While she is home in the district, Congresswoman Scanlon wants to hear from constituents like you about your top concerns and how she can best represent PA-05 when she returns to Washington.

Due to limited venue capacity, we ask that you register for ONLY ONE of the Coffee with Your Congresswoman events being held August 4-7, 2025. This will allow more constituents to participate.

Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Event Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Office of Congresswoman Scanlon, 2501 Seaport Drive, Chester, PA 19013

Sign-ups for this event have surpassed the capacity of the venue. Walk-ins will not be accepted due to venue capacity.

Coffee With Your Congresswoman

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon for coffee and conversation. While she is home in the district, Congresswoman Scanlon wants to hear from constituents like you about your top concerns and how she can best represent PA-05 when she returns to Washington.

Due to limited venue capacity, we ask that you register for ONLY ONE of the Coffee with Your Congresswoman events being held August 4-7, 2025. This will allow more constituents to participate.

Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
Event Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Tinicum Memorial Public Library, 620 Seneca Street, Essington, PA 19029
NOTE: Tinicum Memorial Public Library is not a sponsor of Coffee with Your Congresswoman and is not involved in the planning or content of the event.

Sign-ups for this event have surpassed the capacity of the venue. Walk-ins will not be accepted due to venue capacity.

Coffee With Your Congresswoman

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon for coffee and conversation. While she is home in the district, Congresswoman Scanlon wants to hear from constituents like you about your top concerns and how she can best represent PA-05 when she returns to Washington.

Due to limited venue capacity, we ask that you register for ONLY ONE of the Coffee with Your Congresswoman events being held August 4-7, 2025. This will allow more constituents to participate.

Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Event Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Upper Darby Township Library - Municipal Branch, 501 Bywood Avenue, Upper Darby, PA 19082
NOTE: Upper Darby Township Library - Municipal Branch is not a sponsor of Coffee with Your Congresswoman and is not involved in the planning or content of the event.

Sign-ups for this event have surpassed the capacity of the venue. Walk-ins will not be accepted due to venue capacity.

Coffee With Your Congresswoman

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 20:30:00 GMT

Join Congresswoman Scanlon for coffee and conversation. While she is home in the district, Congresswoman Scanlon wants to hear from constituents like you about your top concerns and how she can best represent PA-05 when she returns to Washington.

Due to limited venue capacity, we ask that you register for ONLY ONE of the Coffee with Your Congresswoman events being held August 4-7, 2025. This will allow more constituents to participate.

Date: Monday, August 4, 2025
Event Time: 4:30 PM
Location: ACLAMO, 801 W. Marshall Street, Norristown, PA 19401

Sign-ups for this event have surpassed the capacity of the venue. Walk-ins will not be accepted due to venue capacity.