DeLissio has fought for women’s rights
To the Editor:
As Pamela DeLissio, Pennsylvania representative of the 194th District, begins her new term, we would like to express a few of our opinions on her actions as state representative for our district and propose a few possible actions for the near future.
First, we appreciate her strides supporting women’s rights. We believe that the issue of women’s rights is a timely and contested one. DeLissio’s work in the Pennsylvania General Assembly helps many women across the commonwealth to stay safe and in control of their bodies in an increasingly bigoted America. Through her voting record, Delissio has demonstrated a solid stance on the issue of abortion. Ever since she was first elected to the House, she has consistently voted pro-choice. For example, she voted against HB 1977 and HB 818, which limited coverage of abortions in insurance plans.
We also support her vote to pass SB 261, increasing the statute of limitations for victims of sexual abuse. Recent developments such as the Kavanaugh hearings have shown us that many times, victims of sexual abuse do not come forward until many years later, and it is just as important for their voices to be heard whether the crime happened last week or years ago.
Another way she has shown her care for women is through her vote to pass HB 2060, which requires the surrender of firearms in protection abuse situations. In 2010, it was reported by the Huffington Post that 85 percent of domestic abuse victims in the United States are women, so the passing of this bill shows her concern for the well-being of the women of Pennsylvania, and we hope that she continues to fight for women’s rights in the Pennsylvania General Assembly and beyond.
Although she has voted for some gun legislation in the past, we believe that she has not gone far enough. Gun violence is something we all have been affected by. As students, we fear not only school shootings but also violence on the streets. Gun violence is not a Pennsylvania specific issue, but she has the power to do something about it in our state. We would like for her to push for harsher gun laws so that this sort of violence cannot happen. We suggest pushing for laws to increase penalties on illegal possession and sale of firearms of all sizes so that guns stay out of the hands of the people who would do the most damage.
The position of a state representative does not receive much public attention. It is important, however, to stay informed about the actions of those who represent us. We hope that by reading this, you are better informed about Pamela DeLissio’s actions as Pennsylvania House representative.