2025 is coming to a close- but the legislative session in Harrisburg is only half way through. Erie News Now caught up with some of our local lawmakers to hear what they accomplished in 2025 and what they count as unfinished business for 2026.
State representative Ryan Bizzarro has served Erie county since 2012.
“I’m really proud of what we’ve done in the district office helping over 6,500 constituents, over 20,000 unique cases to them,” Bizzarro said, “and helping people in 30 counties across the Commonwealth.”
In Harrisburg, Bizzarro is the policy committee chair and part of House Democratic Leadership- hosting hearings on topics of public interest.
“We’ve done over 44 hearings in I think 16 different counties and we’re prepared to continue to hit the ground running as we start the new year,” Bizzarro said.
Reflecting on 2025, Bizzarro had his first time home buyers bill pass the house.
Looking ahead to 2026- Bizzarro says cannabis will need legislative attention.
“I’m not a smoker but I’m a state budget broker, and to continue kicking the can down the road is foolish for us,” Bizzarro said. “Every day that we don’t legalize marijuana for recreational use is a day that we are we are losing money.”
For the Erie area, Bizzarro says over $25 million in state funds were awarded to local programs and projects.
“What a lot of folks don’t understand these grants one folks apply for it locally. It’s an incredibly competitive process down there,” Bizzarro said. “And so we use our voice down here to push and to ensure our region is well represented.”
Bizzarro extending thanks to staff in Erie and in Harrisburg for the work they do behind scenes and with citizens.
“Give us a call. We’re here to help you with with any concerns that you might have,” Bizzarro said. “And if we don’t have the answer, we’ll get it for you.”