Rep. Dane Watro

PA State Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill). Serving the citizens of the 116th Legislative District. Terms of use:

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Every October, the fountain at the Pennsylvania Capitol turns pink to honor those who have fought breast cancer or who are fighting it now. To everyone touched by breast cancer, you are seen, you are loved and you are never alone.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

I’d like to thank everyone who came out and participated in my annual senior expo at Hazleton’s Laurel Mall.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Earlier this week, I joined my House GOP colleagues in their continuing effort to protect women’s sports in PA. I signed a petition to discharge from committee SB1293, which would create the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act. Biological males should not play women's sports.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Yesterday, my resolution designating Dec. 7, 2026, as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in our state was approved in committee. This year’s Remembrance Day will mark the 85th anniversary of the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

In the PA House Gaming Control Committee yesterday, my amendment to help our firefighters was unanimously approved. The amendment to SB398 removes limits on licensed fire companies conducting on-line raffles. The bill would have limited raffles to only two per year.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

On Thursday, Aug. 13, I will be co-hosting an illegible license plate event with Sen. Argall at the Hazleton PA State Police Barracks, 250 Dessen Drive, Hazle Township, from 10am-1pm. RSVPs required.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Our community mourns the tragic loss of PSP Trooper Michael Pahira, struck and killed during a safety inspection early Wednesday on I‑81. Please keep his family, fellow troopers, and loved ones in your thoughts. We honor his dedicated service and sacrifice.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Yesterday, I voted for House Bill 41, legislation I co-sponsored that would allow the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association to establish separate playoff systems and championships for public and private, charter and parochial schools.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Last week, I was interviewed by Sarah Hofius Hall of WVIA News about my cursive writing legislation that recently became law. As part of the interview, we went to see cursive being taught in a Hazleton Area School District elementary school classroom.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

My legislation to bring cursive instruction back to Pennsylvania schools is now law, ensuring students learn a skill that boosts cognitive growth, fine motor skills and keeps our history alive. For more about the new law: https://t.co/GJNXzvcbn1

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Join State Treasurer Stacy Garrity and I for a telephone town hall tonight, from 7-8 p.m.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Great to join colleagues at Friday's MAEA Legislative Roundtable - the largest turnout yet! We discussed energy, taxes, workforce, health care and infrastructure. Thanks to MAEA and all who participated for working to strengthen NEPA’s economy.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Cursive Handwriting Isn't a Thing of the Past

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

I want to share the great news that my legislation, House Bill 17, to bring back cursive instruction to Pennsylvania schools is on its way to the governor after the Pennsylvania state Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved it!
https://t.co/08xmQtaRP6

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Today, on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, we honor the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. Your dedication, sacrifice and commitment to protecting others do not go unnoticed. Thank you for all you do.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

This morning, I provided a legislative update at the November Red Carpet Breakfast, hosted by the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, at Hazleton's Pines Eatery & Spiritz.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Today, I voted for the 2025-26 state budget which represents a return to responsible governing and a commitment to core principles that put Pennsylvanians first. It also represents a far different budget than the one Gov. Josh Shapiro and legislative Democrats have been pushing.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

This morning, I talked with the guys at Froggy 101's "The Doc Show" and provided a legislative update. My thanks to Ken "Doc" Medek and his son, Sean "Chewy" Medek, for having me on their show.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Today, I signed a petition to discharge from the PA House Education Committee HB 158 which would create the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act to ensure women aren't forced to compete against biological males on women’s sports teams. The committee has ignored the bill since January.

[Rep. Dane Watro @RepWatro]

Today, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives unanimously approved my resolution to recognize Nov. 11, 2025, as Veterans Day in Pennsylvania.