Latest News from State Capitol and 55th District

March 12, 2026

Families Need a Simple, Sensible Tool to Protect Their Homes

To follow up on a previous column about my bill, House Bill 1394, which would eliminate the state inheritance tax, there is a related bill that I am co-sponsoring that warrants attention.

Quite often, when a loved one passes away, family members are left behind and forced to navigate a court process that is slow and expensive. Many constituents shared with me their ordeal, grieving for their loved one while also considering legal matters. Emotionally draining is about the only way to describe it. 

The family home, usually the highest valued asset being considered, can get tied up in paperwork, court fees and delays, even when everyone is in agreement on who should receive it. House Bill 2124 provides a remedy by enacting the Uniform Real Property Transfer on Death Act.

In short, the bill would provide a simple tool, commonly referred to as a “Lady Bird” or “Transfer On Death” deed. 

A Lady Bird deed allows a homeowner to name who will receive their home when they die, while keeping full control of the property during their lifetime. That means you can live in your home, sell it, refinance it or even change your mind about who should inherit it, without having to ask anyone’s permission. When you pass, the home automatically transfers to the person you’ve named, without going through probate court.

I support the bill because it does three things I believe in: strengthens property rights, keeps government in its proper lane and gives families more control over their own planning.

Further, homeowners would decide for themselves how their home would pass to the next generation, with as little red tape as possible. It reduces the need for court involvement and costly proceedings in what should otherwise be a straightforward transfer to a family member. It also offers a lower-cost alternative to complex estate-planning tools that many working families simply cannot afford.

A Lady Bird deed can be a lifeline for older residents who want to stay in their homes as long as possible. Because it preserves full decision-making, the current owner does not need to worry about being forced to give up control or leaving behind a legal mess when they are gone.

Of course, a Lady Bird deed is not always the best option, particularly if complex businesses, special needs issues or blended family circumstances require more detailed planning.

But for Pennsylvanians with modest estates, House Bill 2124 respects the dignity and decisions of property owners with an easy-to-understand solution. It does not replace other planning options; it simply adds a clear, tested choice that has worked well in 22 other states and puts it within reach of the people who need it most.

When you work your whole life to pay off a home, you should not fear that your final gift to your family will be delays, confusion and legal expenses. Lady Bird deeds can provide a great means to honor a senior’s wishes and keep control where it belongs: with the homeowner, not with bureaucracy.

Here are some additional news topics and reminders I would like to share.

Your Opinion Counts - Concern continues to rise from parents and educators that students’ use of cell phones has become a serious distraction from learning. Different approaches to address the issue have been discussed in the General Assembly and I have created a survey for those 18 years of age or older to weigh in. You can find the survey on my website, RepJillCooper.com. 

Local Businesses Invited! – I am hosting a Business Roundtable to discuss what is working and the ongoing challenges encountered by local entrepreneurs. Join me this Friday, March 20, 7:30–9:30 a.m. at the Murrysville Community Center, 3091 Carson Ave., Murrysville. Registration by March 17 is required. Contact Robin Savage at 724-387-9113 or via email at rsavage@pahousegop.com.

High School Students Can Jumpstart Their Next Move - My staff and I are hosting Junior Jumpstart, a financial aid seminar with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency to help next year’s high school seniors begin navigating the world of college financing. Current seniors who have questions are certainly invited as well. The event is on Monday, March 30, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Northern Westmoreland Career and Technology Center, 705 Stevenson Blvd., New Kensington. Registration by March 25 is suggested but not required. Contact Robin Savage at 724-387-9113 or via email at rsavage@pahousegop.com.

Grants Workshop Available - Calling all local governments, school districts and nonprofit organizations! My upcoming Grants 101 Workshop is available to help you with the basics of grant writing. Guest speakers include officials from state offices and organizations, including the Department of Transportation, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Municipal Project Hub. Join me on Wednesday, April 8, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Delmont Fire Hall, 2360 State Route 66 in Delmont. Register by contacting Robin Savage at 724-387-9113 or by emailing rsavage@pahousegop.com.



Representative Jill Cooper
55th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jordan Frei
724.875.8450
jfrei@pahousegop.com