Legislator Spotlight: State Rep. Patty Kim

What are your top three legislative priorities in 2023? As Majority Chair of the Aging and Older Adult Services Committee, I am focused on issues that have a direct impact on our seniors. This population is growing and we need to have the infrastructure and services to meet their needs. Right now, I see a great need for safe, affordable housing and more health care workers in nursing facilities across the state. Our committee has caring, smart legislators that want to find bi-partisan solutions. I’m looking forward to passing bills that will have positive changes for our older Pennsylvanians
What are the important issues facing your district? I represent Cumberland and Dauphin Counties. I’ve spoken to all four superintendents in the school districts that I represent. There is a need for teachers and substitutes in the classrooms. Last fall, we put together a package of bills that would remove some barriers for teachers to obtain their certificates and help relieve the financial burdens. 
A quality public education for students will help prevent gun violence which is also a problem in parts of my district. I will continue to work hard to make sure we adequately fund our schools so we can give students the best education and future. But in the meantime they need to have the resources to pay for rising costs of bus transportation, cyber charter school reimbursements, building maintenance and special education. 
Where do you shop locally for food? I go to Weis, Giant and Aldi’s.
What is your favorite vacation destination? My family visited Italy last summer and loved every minute there! My daughter decided to study a semester abroad in Rome next year. I guess we “have” to go back!  
What are the biggest challenges for grocers in your  district? I first want to thank the grocers for staying open during the pandemic. I can’t imagine what they had to go through to keep their employees and customers safe while staying open. I believe some current challenges are attracting workers and trying to keep the cost of food low while dealing with inflation and supply chain issues.
What are your biggest challenges and successes as a legislator?  I served 10 years in the minority party. It was difficult to keep reintroducing bills that I felt would help my district but then not come up for a vote. Now that I am part of the majority, I have been able to pass bills that would expand the Property Tax Rent Rebate program that is now law and pass a higher minimum wage that is currently in the Senate.
What is your favorite food or meal to cook? I grew up watching my grandmother cook Korean food when she lived with us. There are certain dishes like soups that bring comfort and memories of my childhood.
What do you like to do for fun? I like to visit state parks and hike with my family. When I’m not hiking, I like to take power naps on the weekend!

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