|
||||
|
In this Update:
New Law Extends PA Guard Family Education Benefit
The Military Family Education Program (MFEP) covers the cost of a state college education for dependents of Pennsylvania National Guard members in return for a six-year service obligation. We passed a new law ensuring additional dependents are covered each time the member commits to an additional service obligation. The benefit is an incentive to encourage talented Guard members to continue their service to the commonwealth and nation. Many Guard members who benefited from the MFEP are deciding whether to commit to another six years. Act 32 of 2025 clarifies that a Guard member can receive a new MFEP assistance grant – helping an additional dependent – with each new service obligation. I was proud to support this family benefit for our men and women in uniform. Senate Acts to Ensure More Efficient Government Spending
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission would be able to spend funds more efficiently under my legislation, which was passed by the Senate. The aim is to keep costs as low as possible for anglers and boaters. Currently, commission revenues are directed into either the Fish Fund or the Boat Fund, with no crossover permitted. This rigidity has led to inefficiencies and higher costs. Senate Bill 800 permits Fish Fund dollars to be used for expenditures and programs that benefit boaters and Boat Fund dollars to be used for expenditures and programs that benefit anglers, as long as they also benefit the original intent of the respective funds. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Shippensburg Area Infrastructure Projects Underway
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of many, several significant transportation and infrastructure initiatives are underway in the greater Shippensburg area. An event was held today to highlight the positive impact that these projects will have for residents, visitors, and employers alike. The hallmark project is the Intermunicipal Dykeman Road Initiative, which is being advanced by the Borough of Shippensburg, in collaboration with Southampton Township and Shippensburg Township. The Project will provide an alternate route around downtown Shippensburg, relieving severe congestion along King Street (U.S. Route 11) and Orange Street in the Borough and providing greater connectivity between these municipalities.
In addition to these initiatives, other investments have resulted in the building of a new park in Southampton Township, stormwater improvements which are nearly complete, and traffic signal retiming in the borough, as well as new water and sewer infrastructure in the Cumberland Franklin Joint Municipal Authority service area. Congratulations to all involved in advancing these projects. They will go a long way toward serving the present and future needs of the community. The inter-municipal collaboration and regional vision of local leaders has been remarkable. I was glad to help bring commonwealth support. Updated Clark’s Ferry Corridor Plans Released
The current scope of the work includes full deck rehabilitation, joint and pier repairs, and painting of the Clark’s Ferry Bridge; rebuilding of the Route 849 (Market Street) bridge into Duncannon; installation of a continuous median barrier and construction of a new frontage lane on the westbound side of Routes 22/322; interchange updates and lengthening of exit ramps at Route 147 and U.S. Routes 11/15; and improved Appalachian Trail routing and signage. The virtual plans will be available online until September 8. The proposed plans, schedule, a narrated project description video, a comment form and more can be accessed here. Planning a PA Capitol Visit
Your Pennsylvania Capitol is not only the seat of state government, it’s also an architectural and artistic treasure to be experienced by citizens from across the commonwealth. Visitors are welcome to explore the building at their leisure on regular weekdays. You can also schedule a tour with a guide. Tours take about 30 to 45 minutes. You can plan a visit and book a tour of this 119-year-old National Historic Landmark here. Farmers Markets: A Great Source of Fresh, Healthy Food
This is National Farmers Market Week. Now’s a great time to visit a farmers market for fresh fruits, vegetables and specialty products. These markets support farmers and provide access to healthy food and flavors you may have never before experienced. Find the best farmers markets near and far at VisitPA or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Perry County Fair Kicks-Off Next Week
The Perry County Fair runs August 12-16! I always look forward to the livestock shows, tractor parade, and live music. Check out the full schedule and stop by our booth when you’re there! I hope to see you in Newport!
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. |
||||
|
||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorrothman.com | Privacy Policy |
