On Jan. 3, I had the privilege of taking the oath of office along with my 199 colleagues in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives during a ceremony at the state Capitol.

The event marked the formal start of the 2023-24 legislative session.

Now in my seventh term, I have the honor of serving residents of the 187th Legislative District in Lehigh County, which was redrawn during last year’s redistricting process.

Previously, before the recent round of redistricting, I represented the 134th Legislative District, which included parts of Berks and Lehigh counties. I am humbled, district residents have chosen me to represent them in Harrisburg and am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.

The 187th Legislative District includes the townships of Heidelberg, Lower Macungie, Lynn, Upper Macungie (Districts 3, 7 and 8), Washington, and Weisenberg; and the boroughs of Alburtis and Macungie in Lehigh County.

During this legislative session I intend to remain focused on creating jobs, protecting taxpayers, strengthening education, and reforming government.

Some of the best ideas for legislation come from the people we represent, who may have a local issue or concern that also has statewide impact.

I am always willing to listen to those proposals and encourage residents to call or email me at RMackenzie@pahousegop.com to discuss them.

Our telephone numbers are 610-965-9933 or 833-933-3675 (toll-free).

This two-year legislative session is going to be more challenging than those of the recent past as we work within the framework of an evenly divided House chamber.

However, I believe we are up to the task and will do our best to advance policies that improve the lives of all Pennsylvanians.

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State Rep. Ryan Mackenzie represents the 187th Legislative District.