Pennsylvania Students Honored for “Ought to Be a Law” Proposals

Four young Pennsylvania students recently had the chance to see their ideas for improving the Commonwealth recognized at the State Capitol, after being named winners of state Rep. Kristin Marcell’s 2026 “Ought to Be a Law” contest.

The contest invited students to think about issues affecting their schools, communities and daily lives, then develop proposals for new state laws. The winning students — Ryan Weisensale, Adelyn Martin, Ronald Linnik and Amelia Curry — were welcomed to Harrisburg with their families for a Capitol visit and honorary bill-signing ceremony.

Marcell said she was honored to host the students and recognize the work they put into their legislative ideas.

“I was honored to welcome the winners of my 2026 ‘Ought to Be a Law’ contest and their families to the Capitol,” Marcell said. “Each identified an issue they cared about and developed a proposal for a new state law.”

A Hands-On Lesson in Civic Engagement

During their visit, the students toured the Capitol and took part in a ceremony recognizing their proposals. The experience gave them a firsthand look at the legislative process and the role citizens can play in identifying problems and suggesting solutions.

For Marcell, the day was not only about celebrating the students’ ideas, but also encouraging civic participation at a young age.

“It was great to hear them explain their ideas and see their enthusiasm for government and civic engagement,” Marcell said.

The proposals covered a wide range of topics, from school safety and public health to privacy protections and election advertising.

Student Proposals Address Real-World Concerns

Ryan Weisensale, a fourth-grade student from Jamison Elementary School, proposed a law requiring the remediation of lead pipes in schools. His proposal focused on improving drinking water quality and helping ensure students have access to safe water during the school day.

Adelyn Martin, a fifth-grade student from Our Lady of Good Counsel, proposed a law prohibiting negative election advertisements about other candidates. Her idea centered on encouraging a more respectful tone in political campaigns and reducing attacks in election messaging.

Ronald Linnik, a fifth-grade student from Richboro Elementary School, proposed a law aimed at protecting online privacy. His proposal would prevent third-party apps from using and sharing private user information without permission, an issue that continues to grow as children and families spend more time using digital tools and platforms.

Amelia Curry, a fifth-grade student from St. Katharine Drexel, proposed requiring EpiPens to be included in automated external defibrillator kits. Her proposal would expand emergency preparedness by making allergy-response medication more accessible alongside other lifesaving tools.

Young Voices With Serious Ideas

While the students’ proposals varied in subject matter, each reflected a thoughtful approach to solving problems they saw in their communities or in the broader world around them.

The “Ought to Be a Law” contest gives students an opportunity to move beyond classroom lessons and think about how laws are created, why public policy matters and how citizens can participate in the process. By asking students to develop their own legislative proposals, the contest encourages them to consider both the problem they want to address and the practical role government can play in responding to it.

Marcell congratulated the winners for their hard work and the seriousness with which they approached the assignment.

“Congratulations to Ryan, Adelyn, Ronald, and Amelia on their hard work and well-thought-out legislative proposals to better our Commonwealth,” Marcell said.

Their visit to the Capitol served as a reminder that civic engagement can begin early — and that even elementary school students can bring forward ideas rooted in safety, fairness, responsibility, and care for others.