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In this Update:
A Closer Look at Agriculture Innovation
Farmers play a critical role in Pennsylvania as agriculture is among the state’s top industries. Ag producers contribute significantly to our economy, help to feed the world, and ensure food security by reducing our dependence on other countries. As Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs committee, I was pleased to take part in discussions about on-farm conservation efforts held at Ag Progress Days this week. Farmers are focused on the future, incorporating developing technology and the latest innovations to improve efficiencies and benefit the environment. To support and enable farmers to adopt new technological practices, Senate Republicans voted to dedicate $10 million in the state budget to the new Agriculture Innovation and Development Program. Bad Airline Experience? Report It
The Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection has established a new avenue for recourse in dealing with airline-related hardships. Whether there were problems with baggage fees, flight scheduling or a refund due to a flight cancellation, you can use a new complaint form. Simply provide information about yourself, the airline, the complaint and the requested resolution. The Pennsylvania Attorney General could refer violations to the United States Department of Transportation. Supporting documentation including any contracts and proof of payment should be uploaded along with the complaint. Accepted file types include jpg, gif, png and pdf. PennDOT License Plate Updates
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is replacing the otter license plate – which remains valid – with the Eastern hellbender plate to raise wildlife resource management funds. Previous donations have helped to re-establish the river otter, reintroduce osprey and research endangered species of Pennsylvania. The Eastern hellbender is the largest salamander in the country. It can weigh more than two pounds and exceed two feet in length. Since it was named the state amphibian in 2019, the Eastern hellbender serves as a reminder of the need to restore water quality and preserve suitable habitats. To get one of the remaining otter plates, write OTTER on top of the application before returning it.
Additionally, PennDOT has unveiled the new standard PA license plate design, which will be put into use in 2025. Those interested in being among the first to receive a new plate can sign up to be notified when the plate is ready to order. PennDOT will use up existing inventory before transitioning to the new design. https://bit.ly/46bkfkV Unclaimed Property is Available for Nonprofits
The Pennsylvania State Treasury is safeguarding $4.5 billion of unclaimed property, and it’s not just for individuals. Many nonprofits also have money available to claim. Unclaimed property includes things like dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, rebates, insurance payments and more. Every dollar returned to a nonprofit can help to fulfill its core mission. Volunteer fire departments, service organizations and libraries should see if any money is available for them to claim. Search online using these tips to help nonprofits search for unclaimed property. Protect Against Mosquito-Borne Viruses
Pennsylvania boasts so many opportunities for outdoor recreation, especially in the summer. To safely enjoy all nature has to offer, it’s important to know about potential risks and how to minimize them. The leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States is West Nile Virus (WNV), which can cause inflammation of the brain. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection tracks cases of WNV and Jamestown Canyon Virus by county. Since 2000, Pennsylvania’s state budget has included funding to monitor and control WNV. There is no treatment or vaccine for WNV, but people can protect themselves by wearing shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time or when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Consider the use of mosquito repellent and wash all treated skin and clothing when returning indoors. Honoring the Elders of Our Communities
National Senior Citizens’ Day – Wednesday, Aug. 21 – is the perfect opportunity to recognize the importance of elders in our community. They’ve shaped our families, neighborhoods, and our nation–and deserve our respect and gratitude year-round. To support them, Senate Republicans passed bills that are now law to prevent the exploitation of older Pennsylvanians, ensure Pennsylvanians receive access to health care services at nursing homes, preserve prescription drug benefits for seniors and assure nursing homes continue to serve Medical Assistance (MA) recipients by requiring timely MA payments. Around the District and Beyond
I look forward to Ag Progress Days each year. The exhibits, food, and conversations with growers are always outstanding. It was great to catch up with Penn State President, Neeli Bendapudi and others in Centre County this week!
We’ve been having a wonderful time at the Perry County Fair! I was honored to recognize Lloyd Beyers as “Farmer of the Year” and “Friend of the Fair” 2024. Congratulations to all exhibitors and participants!
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