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In this Update:
Senate Approves Bills to Make Housing More Attainable Across PA
The Senate acted to help make housing more affordable by approving three bills which will expand access to housing and preserve local control. My legislation, Senate Bill 1281 empowers local governments to streamline approval processes using uniform housing plans, helping reduce delays and cut unnecessary red tape. Hear my floor remarks on Senate Bill 1281 here. Senate Bill 1279 creates a Housing Development Regulatory Compliance Officer to improve coordination and efficiency in the permitting process. Senate Bill 1236 reduces regulatory burdens on small-scale home construction projects by reforming the stormwater permitting process. These reforms will create more opportunities for affordable housing and homeownership while giving communities the flexibility to encourage growth in a way that reflects local needs and priorities. I thank my collages for their work on this important issue and their unanimous support of Senate Bill 1281. All three bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age
To make sure state laws keep pace with emerging online threats, the Senate voted to establish a Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age. Senate Resolution 244 would direct the Joint State Government Commission to convene a task force to review Pennsylvania’s laws, assess new technologies and identify legal gaps in protections for children in the digital environment. The commission will issue a recommendation for action to the General Assembly. The proposal builds on previous work by the legislature: In 2024, we passed a law to combat AI generated child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). In 2025, we acted to classify deepfakes as digital forgery for more severe punishment. The Senate also approved bills to strengthen reporting requirements for AI-generated CSAM and to establish commonsense safeguards for AI chatbots accessible by minors. Read more about our efforts to protect children in the digital age here. Cellphone Law to Reduce Distracted Driving Takes Full Effect
After a one-year warning period, motorists should be aware that a state law aimed at reducing distracted driving becomes fully enforceable tomorrow (Friday, June 5). The law prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light or other delays. Drivers can still use their phones to alert authorities in the event of an emergency and use hands-free technology to make phone calls, use a GPS and listen to music. For more information about Paul Miller’s Law, motorists can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s distracted driving resource page. Senate Honors State Champion Swimmer, CV’s Addison Buckman
Cumberland Valley’s Addison Buckman was recognized by the Senate this week. I was pleased to introduce her to my colleagues and celebrate her PIAA 3A State Championship in the Girls 100-yard Butterfly. Addison’s high school swimming accomplishments include earning multiple district titles with the Eagles as well as setting two PIAA District 3 Records this season. She was able to build on her district success by capturing the state title as well as a bronze medal in the 100-yard backstroke at Bucknell University in March. Addison’s athleticism, work ethic, and discipline will continue to serve her well as she begins her college swimming career at James Madison University in the fall. Congratulations, again, Addison! Coach Mike Gobrecht Recognized for 36 Years of Leadership at West Shore YMCA
Coach Mike Gobrecht was the Director of Competitive Swimming at the West Shore YMCA (WSY Swimming) in Camp Hill from 1990 until his retirement in April. Over his 36-year tenure, he expertly developed athletes, helping them to achieve their fullest potential–with some becoming Olympic Trials qualifiers and Division I swimmers. His leadership made the program into a national powerhouse. It was an honor to host Mike at the Capitol this week and share his remarkable accomplishments with my Senate colleagues. Thanking the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office
Thanks to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office for a productive meeting this week! I appreciated the opportunity to hear from them as well as to express my gratitude for all they do in our community. In addition to their public safety duties, providing security to the courts and county property, executing orders of court, and issuing licenses, the office makes time to help parents, families, and children through education and safety-focused events. Remembering D-Day
On June 6, 1944, the fate of Europe would be determined by the largest amphibious invasion in history, including 13,000 aircraft and gliders, 23,400 paratroopers, 5,000 ships and landing craft and 160,000 American, British and Canadian troops. More than 9,000 Allied servicemen were killed or wounded that day in northern France. It is our responsibility as Americans to honor their bravery, tell the stories of their heroism and preserve what they defended so their sacrifices were not in vain. |
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