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In this Update:
Standing Up for PA Taxpayers
With the state budget more than 100 days overdue, we are continuing to push for a balanced budget that respects taxpayers and will not lead to massive tax increases just a year or two from now. Unfortunately, the majority in the House of Representatives have again proposed an irresponsible plan that seeks to spend billions more than taxpayers can afford by using one-time dollars. The most prudent action for the House to take would be to immediately pass the budget approved by the Senate back on August 12 – that would get money flowing to counties, schools and social service agencies. It’s time to put people above politics. Senate leaders discussed the impasse here. Senate Acts to Waive Interest on Short-Term Budget Impasse Loans
Pennsylvania counties, early education programs, rape prevention and domestic violence prevention centers could pay no interest on loans from the Pennsylvania Treasury under legislation approved by the Senate. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Under current law, the Pennsylvania Treasurer may provide investment loans during a budget impasse but must charge interest on those loans. Treasury’s Budget Bridge Loan program would provide up to $500 million in low-interest loans from the Liquid Asset Pool Investment Fund for county governments, domestic violence and rape crisis centers, Head Start agencies and approved providers under the Pre-K Counts program. Those investment loans would cover up to 25% of a recipient’s state budget appropriation from the previous fiscal year. Senate Bill 1040 would authorize the state treasurer to waive interest charges on loans issued during a budget impasse and help prevent additional costs for taxpayers and communities. Area High School Students Become ‘Senators for a Day’
Today, I had the pleasure of hosting future leaders from across the 34th senatorial district at the Capitol, for an immersive experience, learning about and participating in the legislative process. High school students from across Cumberland, Northern Dauphin, and Perry counties were selected by their schools to be ‘Senators for a Day.’ They participated in mock legislative sessions, served on one of five committees to discuss bills, take positions, and draft legislation for the full Senate to consider. Later, they met in full session to debate and vote on legislation drafted by the committees. I heard a lot of thoughtful discussions, great perspectives and effective negotiations throughout the day. I hope everyone enjoyed the experience! Veterans Invited to Attend Appreciation Breakfast
Veterans and a guest are invited to attend a free breakfast on Saturday, November 8 in Carlisle. Registration for the event is open! Please complete the form on my website if you’re planning to attend as registration is required. We look forward to seeing you and honoring all who have served! Replace Damaged License Plates in Shippensburg, Oct. 25
PennDOT-issued license plates that have: lost reflectivity, are peeling, blistering, or are discolored, and/or are unreadable from 50 feet away are eligible for FREE replacement. Stop by our license plate replacement event Saturday, October 25 in Shippensburg, to have your plate checked and have all necessary paperwork completed. There is no fee for this service. View answers to Frequently Asked Questions and register here. Please note: registration for the event is recommended, in case of event updates, but is not required. We hope to see you there! Ensuring U.S. and Pennsylvania Flags Are Made in America
Reflecting a growing effort to support American manufacturing, the Senate approved legislation ensuring every U.S. and Pennsylvania flag purchased by the commonwealth is made entirely in the U.S. using American materials. Senate Bill 784 requires the Pennsylvania Department of General Services to procure only flags that are both produced and constructed from materials sourced within the U.S. Each flag must also carry a label reading “Made in America.” The measure not only promotes American-made products within state procurement practices, it prevents the use of taxpayer dollars to purchase flags from nations that do not share the values of Pennsylvania citizens. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Examining the Use of AI in Education and Workforce Development
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom and how schools are adapting programs to prepare students for changing workforce demands were the topics of a public hearing held by the Senate Education Committee and the Senate Communications and Technology Committee. The joint panel heard from educators as well as workforce development and policy experts who discussed the need to embrace AI responsibly, in a manner that retains student critical thinking, ensures ethical and safe use, and prepares students to fill in-demand jobs. Hearing video and written testimony can be found on the Senate Communications and Technology Committee and Senate Education Committee websites. Around the District
As an America250PA Commissioner, I’m excited to be part of the Liberty Tree Project. It’s part of a multi-year celebration of our nation’s 250th Anniversary. A Liberty Tree will be planted in each of the commonwealth’s 67 counties. Recently, we celebrated the planting and dedication of Cumberland County’s Liberty Tree in Hampden Township Veterans Park. Historically, Liberty Trees were gathering places for the Sons of Liberty throughout all 13 colonies. From their meetings and discussions, the seeds of the American Revolution were planted.
Please join me in congratulating Makenna Milbrand! Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of attending her Eagle Scout Court of Honor. I was glad to present her with a PA Senate citation to commemorate this remarkable achievement and acknowledge the great work she did for the Lisburn Community Fire Company as part of her service project. Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Saves Lives
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. But when detected at its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is over 90%. The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition turned the State Capitol East Wing Fountain pink to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The action honors survivors, remembers those lost and encourages early detection through annual mammograms. Learn more about breast cancer and the tools available for early detection here.
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