E-news Updates - January 15, 2026

In this Update:

Celebrating Agriculture at the 110th PA Farm Show
2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Applications Now Being Accepted
Input Wanted on Program Helping PA Seniors and People with Disabilities
U.S. Supreme Court Hears Cases on Female Athletics
Tips for Preparing for Winter Storms and Power Outages
Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream

Celebrating Agriculture at the 110^th PA Farm Show

The 110th PA Farm Show has been incredible. This year’s theme, Growing a Nation, is perfect for kicking off the America250PA celebrations that will be taking place throughout 2026, recognizing Pennsylvania’s leading role in our nation’s founding and future.

I had the opportunity to attend throughout the week, meeting with a number of constituents and celebrating the agriculture industry at various ceremonies and events. I had the privilege of putting my skills to the test, participating in the Feed Scurry and Honey Extraction competitions. I also attended U.S. Congressman Glenn Thompson’s public listening session on Agriculture, the PA Preferred reception and elected officials’ luncheon.

I was glad to connect with Hayley of Painterland Sisters, producer of the best skyr yogurt, which is made right outside of Newville.

The 2026 show runs through Saturday, so there is still time to go! Planning ahead is the best way to make the most of your time. Click here for essential details about event hours and parking, along with tips to help you navigate the complex.

2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Applications Now Being Accepted

The application period is now open for this year’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, which provides rebates from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older.

The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is accepting applications for rebates on property taxes or rent paid in 2025.

Forms and instructions are available online, and eligible Pennsylvanians are encouraged to file their applications via myPATH to ensure their rebates are processed as quickly as possible. Please reach out to my office with any questions.

Input Wanted on Program Helping PA Seniors and People with Disabilities

Older Pennsylvanians, people with disabilities and their families can find services and support in their community through Pennsylvania Link to Aging and Disability Resources (PA Link).

Public input is wanted on a plan to redesign and improve PA Link. The plan calls for developing performance metrics, expanding call center functionality, deploying volunteers for community engagement and more.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging will hold a listening session Jan. 27, and the public comment period will be open until Feb. 9. You can review the draft plan, submit comments and sign up for the listening session here.

U.S. Supreme Court Hears Cases on Fairness in Female Athletics

The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments in two cases involving state laws designed to safeguard women’s sports. Here in Pennsylvania, I supported the Save Women’s Sports Act, which will ensure athletic teams designated for women are reserved for biological females in Pennsylvania’s K–12 and collegiate sports.

Senate Bill 9 reinforces the original intent of Title IX by ensuring female athletes are not denied scholarships, placements or opportunities due to unfair competition from biological males. It acknowledges biological realities and helps guarantee a safe, level playing field for women and girls. The bill passed the Senate in May 2025 and is awaiting action in the state House of Representatives.

Tips for Preparing for Winter Storms and Power Outages

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission offers these tips for what to do before and during winter storms:

Keep available flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food and necessary medications.
Charge cell phones, medical devices and other essential electronics before the storm.
Monitor weather forecasts and utility updates through local news outlets, official social media channels and emergency alerts.
Report power outages or downed power lines directly to your utility company. Always assume downed lines are energized and stay far away.

Learn more about what to do if you lose power during the storm, how to stay safe while waiting for power to be restored and what utilities do to deal with storms here.

Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

Monday, we’ll honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a leader who reminded us that us that our greatest strength comes when we stand together as one nation. We strive to uphold his legacy of service throughout the year.

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