LETTER: Rep. Toepel Has Worked Tirelessly For Constituents

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Dear Editor,

Ferris Bueller said that "if you don't stop to look around once in awhile, you may miss it." 31 years since uttering this wise observation, Bueller's words aptly describe the complex political atmosphere today and the growing apathy towards state policy efforts. While most Americans are glued to their smartphones to follow news from Capital Hill and the White House, few notice the great work being done by their local and state representatives - people like State Representative Marcy Toepel (R), who represents the residents of the 147th District in Pennsylvania.

Although Healthcare reform appears to be at an impasse in Congress, Representative Toepel has been successfully working towards improvements in health care and medical treatments in Pennsylvania. Her leadership, persistence, and genuine care for her constituents was an important factor in the passage of the Oral Chemo Parity law, which makes anti-cancer medication more affordable for Pennsylvania residents. She was also influential in the legislative effort to legalize Cannabis for medical purposes in Pennsylvania. These two laws, passed during the 2016 legislative session, provide hope to thousands of Pennsylvania residents suffering from serious diseases.

One of Representative Toepel's most notable achievements occurred during this year's legislative session. Understanding the difficulty in treating rare diseases like Cystic Fibrosis and certain types of cancers, Representative Toepel wrote and sponsored a bill designed to improve the treatment of rare diseases in Pennsylvania. Her bill, House Bill 239, creates a Rare Disease Advisory Council to look for solutions and treatments for the 7,000 rare diseases acknowledged by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The fact that only 300 FDA-approved treatments currently exist to treat these 7,000 rare diseases highlights the importance of this bill. House Bill 239 passed unanimously in both the House and the Senate, and on July 7th Representative Toepel was present as Governor Wolf signed her bill into law.

Although National level politics receive the "lion's share" of media attention, it's important that Americans are cognizant of their states' issues and legislative efforts. Unfortunately, there is also limited coverage and awareness of outstanding public servants in our state and local governments. Public servants like Representative Toepel have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Pennsylvania residents.

- Matt, Harleysville, PA

Image via Rep. Toepel's Office