In an address on the House floor, State Representative Stephenie Scialabba (R-Butler) officially announced her resignation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, effective next week, March 31, 2026.
Scialabba, who represents the 12th Legislative District, had previously announced in February that she would not seek a third term. However, her decision to step down early marks an accelerated departure from Harrisburg to prioritize her family.
The representative cited the foundational needs of her young son, Teddy, as the primary driver for her exit. During her floor speech, Scialabba spoke candidly about the “chasm between representation and parenting” and the toll that public service can take on a family.
In a parting recommendation to her colleagues, she advocated for the creation of a child care center within the State Capitol to make the legislative environment more accessible for parents of young children.
“If you’re a mom or a dad who doesn’t want your parenting and your public service to live in two separate spaces, a dedicated children’s environment within reach would close the gap in real ways … This is 2026 – it’s time we have a family-affirming state Capitol,” she said.
The 12th District—which includes Cranberry, Adams, and Jackson townships—will now see its seat become vacant starting April 1. Under the Pennsylvania Election Code, House Speaker Joanna McClinton has 10 days to issue a writ for a special election. Current projections suggest the special election could be held as early as May 19, 2026, to coincide with the primary.
