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In this Update:
Senate Budget Hearings Examine Spending Details, Transportation Issues and More
The Senate Appropriations Committee wrapped up two weeks of public hearings on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s $53.3 billion proposed state budget, which would increase spending by $2.7 billion, or 5.4%. At the hearings with the Budget Office and Department of Revenue, committee members raised concerns about the level of spending, inefficiencies in state government and the potential consequences of irresponsible budgeting. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s questionable management of public transit and infrastructure projects was the focus of its hearing with the committee. Lawmakers pressed the agency not only on project oversight but also on the growth of funding held in certain accounts and the lack of transparency surrounding how those dollars are being spent. The Public Utility Commission oversees more than 8,000 entities which provide utility services across the state. Committee members raised concerns that Gov. Shapiro’s approach to energy is leading to higher costs for Pennsylvania consumers, while subsidizing lower energy prices in other states in the region. Committee members explored growing prison costs at the Department of Corrections Department hearing. The budget would increase spending for the department by $142 million. The 4.4% increase comes despite the fact the department is closing two correctional facilities and is 6,000 beds under capacity for the remaining facilities. Committee members focused on how State System of Higher Education universities are working to improve enrollment and efficiency. The panel took testimony from the presidents of Millersville, East Stroudsburg and West Chester universities and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. You can find complete recaps and videos of each hearing here. Carlisle Satellite Office Opening Announced
I’m pleased to announce that our new Carlisle Satellite Office will be opening Thursday, March 19. The office is located on the second floor of the Cumberland County Main Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Carlisle and will be open the third Thursday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon. Staff will be on hand to provide constituent service and facilitate work with commonwealth agencies, including requests for birth certificates, driver’s license and motor vehicle registration renewals, completion of property tax/rent rebate applications and more. They will also be available to provide status updates on pending legislation and receive feedback on such. Being accessible to constituents is a top priority. Having a regular presence in Carlisle will improve our ability to hear from and serve the needs of residents in the central part of the county. We look forward to connecting with those in and around the borough. Please call (717) 283-4200 or visit senatorrothman.com for more information. Bill to Ease Shortage in Long-Term Care Workers Approved by Senate
To help alleviate Pennsylvania’s serious shortage of long-term care workers, the Senate approved legislation to allow high school juniors and seniors to earn graduation credit by working or volunteering in these settings so they can consider a career in this crucial field. Health care leaders and senior advocates strongly support Senate Bill 116 because while Pennsylvania’s population over the age of 65 is expected to nearly double by 2040, the number of long-term care professionals declined by 14% from 2019 to 2022. This bill is part of a bipartisan package aimed at strengthening the long-term care workforce. Along with Senate Bill 114 and Senate Bill 115, it awaits action in the House of Representatives. Family Caregivers Can Find Help Through State Support Program
Caring for a loved one is rewarding but also challenging. If you or someone you know could use some help, the state Caregiver Support Program could be the answer. The state Caregiver Support Program provides relief through respite care, education and financial assistance for eligible unpaid caregivers. Those who wish to participate are assigned a care manager who will assess needs, provide support and work with them to develop a care plan. Find out more about eligibility as well as how to apply, and find additional caregiver resources, from the Department of Aging. Online Filing Option Available for PA Personal Income Taxes
As we prepare to file taxes this time of year, it’s a reminder that government has no money of its own; every penny comes from taxpayers, which is why fiscal responsibility and good stewardship are essential in state government. It’s important that taxpayers are respected and that procedural burdens are minimized wherever possible. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue has resources and tools that can help simplify the filing process for many taxpayers. Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax returns can be filed online for free through the myPATH portal. It includes automatic calculators, instant confirmation and secure payment options. You can access many features directly from the myPATH homepage without needing to create a username or password. Additional options are offered exclusively to users who opt to create an account. Learn more from the state Department of Revenue. Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the nation for veteran-owned small businesses and Invest in Veterans Week (March 1-7) helps focus attention on these patriotic entrepreneurs. Many men and women who have served our nation are now providing jobs and economic vitality in our communities. Please keep an eye out for veteran-owned businesses in our area. If you’re a veteran looking to start or expand a business, you can find state and federal resources here.
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