Pa.’s newest House members pledge focus on transit

The two newest members of Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation are pledging their attention to issues such as upgrading the state’s roads, bridges and rail service and improving health care at the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs facility.

Reps. Ryan Costello, a Republican in the 6th District, and Brendan Boyle, a Democrat in the 13th District, are beginning their first week on Capitol Hill.

Costello will serve on the House Veterans’ Affairs committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Costello said he would push for a sharper veterans committee focus on the Philadelphia VA facility. That facility is being investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs inspector general for mismanagement and other problems.

Boyle, expected to receive committee assignments soon, said he hoped also to focus on transportation and perhaps foreign affairs issues.