Erie County Times

Sen. Dan Laughlin was sworn in for his third term in the Pennsylvania State Senate, representing the 49th Senatorial District, which includes most of Erie County. The ceremony marks the beginning of the Pennsylvania General Assembly's 2025-26 legislative session.

“I am thankful for the confidence and trust of the people of the 49th Senatorial District,” Laughlin stated. “While we’ve worked to accomplish many things during my past eight years in the Senate, there’s plenty left to do, and I’ll continue to work hard to deliver results for Erie County.”

Laughlin's background is rooted in Erie, where he was born and raised. His father was a World War II combat veteran and union carpenter, while his mother worked on fighter planes at Curtis Wright Plant in Buffalo. As one of four children, Laughlin contributed financially to his family by working various jobs from a young age.

He later joined his brother's construction firm and became a full partner. Their company, Laughlin Builders, gained recognition as a premier homebuilder in the region. They expanded their business ventures by forming Waste Away, a trash disposal company sold to Pro Waste Corp., along with other enterprises like Clear Water Foam and Laughlin Properties.

As a small business owner, Laughlin advocates for job creation policies and reducing government spending and regulatory burdens on businesses. He emphasizes government reform aimed at making state governance more accessible and accountable.

Laughlin is married to Peggy Schneider, a mechanical engineer. They have three children: Spencer, Nathaniel, and Sinclaire. The family attends Grace Church in McKean.

For further information about state-related news or Sen. Laughlin's activities, constituents can visit his website or follow him on social media platforms.