Press release from Jim Struzzi
Pennsylvania State Representative Jim Struzzi announced today (Thursday, Feb. 12) his plan to seek reelection for the 62nd Pennsylvania House District, citing recent legislative successes and a commitment to build on those successes for Indiana County.
“Serving as your state representative has been a true honor, and I am committed to achieving even greater results for our community,” Struzzi said.
Since his election in 2018, Struzzi has faced an uphill battle to end a job-killing carbon tax on Pennsylvania energy producers called the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, commonly referred to as RGGI. As chairman of the powerful House Republican Appropriations Committee, which directly handles the state budget, Struzzi helped negotiate the end of RGGI in the fiscal year 2025-26 budget.
“The negative impacts of RGGI in Indiana County were painful to our communities, but I never stopped fighting, even when many believed our cause was hopeless,” Struzzi said of his efforts to end RGGI. “We are already seeing coal-fired generation plants looking to remain open and new investments in energy production coming to our region and state including the building of a new massive natural gas electric generating station in Homer City.”
Struzzi, a lifelong Western Pennsylvania resident, consistently secures Indiana County’s fair share of state funds.
“In the last calendar year, I delivered over $14 million in state grants and funding for our local communities in Indiana County,” Struzzi stated.
During his eight years of public service in the State House, Struzzi has served on many legislative committees and authored many bills which have become law. In recognition for his work in Human Services – an area he is passionate about – Struzzi was awarded Legislator of the Year by the PA Providers Association. “I have always worked hard to ensure our mental health, substance abuse, and healthcare providers have the tools they need to save lives. I was humbled by the award, and energized to do more,” Struzzi said of the recognition.
He was also awarded the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) Legislator Leadership Award for his efforts to support conservation and agriculture.
“For many years, the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program contained income caps that did not rise with inflation; this was moving far too many seniors out of the program,” Struzzi said. “We’ve now expanded the program so that more seniors are eligible than ever before – it was a common-sense solution, and it puts more money back in your pockets.”
The 62nd District is entirely in Indiana County and includes Indiana and White Township, as well as Armagh, Blairsville, Clymer, Creekside, Homer City, Saltsburg and Shelocta boroughs and Armstrong, Blacklick, Brush Valley, Buffington, Burrell, Center, Cherryhill, Conemaugh, East Wheatfield and Young townships.
“I’m proud of what I have done for the people of Indiana County, and I would be remiss if I didn’t thank my staff for their tireless efforts to serve the people of the 62nd district,” Struzzi added. “We want to continue to serve our constituents.”
Struzzi concluded, “Your trust empowers me to deliver results for Indiana County with honor and integrity. Our best days are ahead, and my proven leadership ensures we will reach them together. Join me as we continue to strengthen and advance our community.”
Struzzi’s campaign will have a nomination petition signing event on Tuesday, Feb.17, 4-6 pm at the Indiana Elks, 475 South 13th Street.
