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In this Update:
Keeping Our Families and Communities Safe
A year ago this month, the Senate took decisive action on several bills to keep our families and communities safe. Among the bills we passed are Senate Bill 92, known as Tyler’s Law, to impose tougher penalties on drug dealers who sell fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdose; Senate Bill 490 to prohibit non-monetary bail for the most dangerous individuals; and Senate Bill 347 to prohibit so-called “safe injection sites” – which endanger our neighborhoods in Pennsylvania. I voted for these bills because there is a clear and urgent need to give our law enforcement community new tools to combat these serious issues. The Senate passed all three bills with bipartisan support; they now await action in the House of Representatives. I will continue working to make our communities safer. Hearing Explores Approaches to Expanding Access to Dental Care Across PA
Efforts to expand access to dental education and reduce barriers to entry to address severe workforce shortages in dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants were the focus of a public hearing of the Senate Majority Policy Committee. Almost a third of Pennsylvanians already don’t receive regular dental care and more than 22% of the commonwealth’s dentists are age 65 and older and nearing retirement. The hearing featured dental professionals, educators, insurance companies and other advocates who gave their perspectives on how dental workforce shortages harm public health and shared successful strategies that encouraged more people to pursue these careers. Video of the hearing and written testimony can be found here. Carlisle Culinary Students Showcase Skills
Carlisle Area School District’s Culinary Arts program, certified by the American Culinary Federation, is a three-year course of study designed to prepare students for a career in the expanding hospitality industry. Under the guidance of Chef/Instructor Liam Surry and Chef Aurora O’Connor, students cater special functions, participate in selected community events, and operate the Courtyard Cafe. The last few years, I’ve been honored to attend lunches prepared and hosted by Carlisle’s culinary students—and I was excited to return today for what was a truly exceptional meal. Not only was everything delicious, the students were impressive in both their knowledge and presentation. I know each has a bright future and countless opportunities ahead. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from all involved in the culinary arts program, from students to district administrators and board members. The conversations and company were outstanding–as is the program itself. New Specialty Plate Helps Preserve Pennsylvania’s Heritage
Pennsylvania drivers have another special fund license plate to put on the back of their vehicles: the Preserve Our Heritage plate featuring the Liberty Bell and Pennsylvania Bank Barn. Built from about 1790 to 1900, these barns were banked and set into a hillside and became symbols of Pennsylvania’s agricultural roots. The plates are available for cars or trucks with a registered gross weight of 14,000 pounds or less. Each plate costs $64, with $23 going directly to support the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission’s education and exhibit programs. You can find the plate and order it here. You Can Help Deliver Senior Services in Our Area
Delivering meals, being a senior companion and other roles are open to volunteers of all ages and abilities with the state Aging Services Network. You can learn new skills, share existing knowledge and experience, make friends and help others through these programs:
Find out more and apply online here or contact the local Area Agency on Aging to see where help is needed in our area. Honoring Changemakers in our Community
This week, I had the honor of attending the Changemakers Award Luncheon hosted by Kareem’s Mission. The non-profit organization works to create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. It was both humbling and inspiring to be in the company of so many wonderful people and hear how each is making a difference. I appreciated the invitation to present a deeply meaningful award. I remain grateful for the incredible work done by the organization and its founder, Hagir. We are stronger together. Recognizing Perry County’s Newest Eagle Scout
Congratulations to Perry County’s newest Eagle Scout, Oliver DiPaolo of Troop 561! By all accounts, Ollie is an outstanding scout, highly deserving of the rank. His hard work, dedication, commitment to service, quiet confidence, and steady leadership are a shining example for all. We couldn’t be more proud of all he’s accomplished—and look forward to all that’s ahead for him! I was honored to sponsor a PA Senate citation to formally recognize his achievements. National Donate Life Month
You can save up to eight lives through organ donation, restore sight to two people through cornea donation and heal more than 75 people through tissue donation. Many Pennsylvanians who want to be an organ donor overlook the important step of registering their decision. Donate Life America has plenty of useful information on this lifesaving topic. Find out how to add the Organ Donor designation to your driver’s license or ID card here.
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