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In this Update:

• Local Students Become ‘Senators for a Day’
• Senate Acts to Strengthen Property Rights
• School Bus Driver Safety Bill Approved by Senate
• Measures Helping Nonprofit Fundraising Efforts Approved by Senate
• Bill Supporting Local Police Unanimously Approved by Committee
• Veterans Appreciation Breakfast: Register Today!
• Standing with Breast Cancer Survivors
• Around the District: Canal Day and Fall Football

Local Students Become ‘Senators for a Day’

I had the pleasure of hosting future leaders from across the 34th district at the Capitol this past week, 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 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.

Thanks to ALL of the participating schools for sending such outstanding students! I heard a lot of thoughtful discussions, great perspectives and effective negotiations throughout the day. I hope everyone enjoyed the experience.

Senate Acts to Strengthen Property Rights

Property rights are enshrined in both the U.S. and the Pennsylvania constitutions, and the Senate approved legislation to strengthen protections against warrantless entry onto private property by Pennsylvania Game Commission personnel.

Senate Bill 1431 would require Game Commission personnel to obtain a valid warrant before entering private property, including posted land, unless a judicially recognized exception to the warrant requirement applies. I was glad to speak in support of this important legislation and advocate for its passage. Watch my remarks here. 

Current law gives Game Commission personnel broad authority to enter land outside buildings, whether posted or otherwise. Senate Bill 1431 would place clear limits on that authority while preserving recognized exceptions to the warrant requirement. Read more about the effort to strengthen property rights.

School Bus Driver Safety Bill Approved by Senate

Approximately 1.5 million children are transported on school buses every day in Pennsylvania, and the Senate approved legislation aimed at keeping reckless bus drivers from getting behind the wheel.

Senate Bill 1262 would increase penalties for school bus drivers who transport children while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or a dangerous combination of both. Read more about this school bus safety measure.

The latest Senate action follows passage last year of Senate Bill 65, which would increase the required stopping distance for drivers approaching from the opposite direction when a school bus is stopped with its red lights flashing. Both bills await passage in the House of Representatives.

Measures Helping Nonprofit Fundraising Efforts Approved by Senate 

The Senate approved two bills to give a boost to civic organizations, fire companies, veterans’ groups and other Pennsylvania nonprofits that rely on small games of chance for crucial fundraising.  

Under current law, clubs and organizations are limited to awarding no more than $35,000 in prizes from small games of chance each week. That cap has not been updated since 2013, despite inflation and the rising costs of programs these organizations fund. 

Senate Bill 995 would raise the weekly limit to $60,000, ensuring local groups can continue generating the revenue they rely on to support vital community programs and services. Read more about this bill.  

Senate Bill 465 would allow licensed clubs to retain up to 50% of their small games of chance proceeds, up from the current 40%. Clubs would continue to be required to use at least 50% of proceeds for public interest purposes. The change would provide clubs with more flexibility to cover operating costs while continuing to support their communities. Read more about this measure.

The bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Bill Supporting Local Police Unanimously Approved by Committee

Our police officers work hard every day to keep our communities, roads, and neighborhoods safe. But here in Pennsylvania, they’re missing an important tool used everywhere else in the country.

Pennsylvania is currently the only state that does not allow local police to use radar, making it harder for local departments to protect the safety of our kids and neighbors.

I’m pleased to report that the PA Senate Transportation Committee unanimously approved my bill, SB 509, to give our local police the option to use this tool to keep our roadways safe, while also providing strong, commonsense protections for Pennsylvanians.

Veterans Appreciation Breakfast: Register Today!

Veterans in the 34th Senate District and their spouses (or guests) are invited to attend a free breakfast Saturday, October 24 in Carlisle.

The event will feature remarks from Maj. Gen. John R. Pippy, Adjutant General of Pennsylvania. Local veterans’ organizations and various government agencies will also be on hand providing veterans and their families with helpful details about the services, benefits, and programs available to them.

Please complete the form on my website if you’re planning to attend as reservations are required. We look forward to seeing you and honoring all who have served!

Standing with Breast Cancer Survivors

I was proud to join the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition at the State Capitol as we kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by turning the East Wing Fountain pink. It was especially meaningful to stand alongside breast cancer survivors and thrivers, advocates and families from across Pennsylvania who continue to bring hope and strength to this important cause.

The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and ensuring women have access to the screenings, care and support they need. And here in Pennsylvania during October, we’re reminded that breast cancer is not a red or blue issue – it’s pink. It affects every one of us. Together, we can raise awareness, support those facing breast cancer and celebrate the survivors and thrivers who inspire us every day.

For more information on screening and diagnostic imaging, please visit our resource page.

Around the District: Canal Day & Fall Football

Thanks to all involved in organizing and supporting Canal Day in Newport!  With more than 60 vendors, delicious food, incredible live music, Newport High School’s cheer and football teams, free children’s activities, Newport Fire Company bucket rides and tons of drawings/giveaways, there was something for everyone! It was a great time!

Fall football brings us together for school spirit, love of the sport, support of incredible athletes as well as charitable causes, and so much more! Thanks to Camp Hill and Susquenita High Schools and Shippensburg University for the hospitality!