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In this Update:
Children’s Vision Bill Highlighted in Scranton Times-Tribune
Over the holidays, the Scranton Times-Tribune highlighted my Children’s Vision Bill, which would expand in-school vision testing to identify problems earlier. Untreated vision issues can affect a child’s behavior, academic success, and self-confidence. While vision screenings already exist, studies show comprehensive eye exams conducted by licensed eye care professionals are more effective at detecting vision problems. My bill, SB 720, would require eye health examinations upon initial school enrollment and again in grades 4 and 8 to help ensure students receive the care they need early on. 2025 Review: Reform Measures Targeting Fraud, Waste and Inefficiency
As we begin the second year of the 2025-26 legislative session, here’s a brief look at what we did last year to target fraud and waste, fix Pennsylvania’s broken system for issuing permits and more. Enacted with the state budget was sweeping permitting reform that sets clear timelines for state agencies to review permit applications and creates a permit tracking system, benefiting citizens and job creators. The budget also included measures ensuring individuals receiving Medical Assistance and SNAP benefits qualify for these taxpayer dollars and preventing dead people from receiving benefits. The Senate also passed legislation to eliminate 13 unnecessary boards, commissions and advisory committees and require automatic review of costly regulations after three years to ensure they remain in the public interest. You can find information on more government reform bills and other notable Senate-passed legislation here. Tour of the Lebanon County Jail
I joined Warden Tina Litz, State Rep. John Schlegel, and Madison Colaco from Congressman Dan Meuser’s office for a tour of the Lebanon County Jail. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to learn more about daily operations at the facility and the challenges faced by those working on the front lines. We discussed ongoing efforts to combat drug addiction in our community and potential changes in the law that could better support these initiatives. Drug addiction continues to be a serious issue across our country, impacting individuals, families, and communities alike. I appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from local officials and stakeholders, and I look forward to continuing these important conversations. More Pennsylvanians Now Eligible for PA ABLE Savings Accounts
More Pennsylvanians are eligible to participate in the PA ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Savings Program in 2026, Treasurer Stacy Garrity announced recently. Pennsylvanians with a qualifying disability occurring prior to age 46 are now eligible to open a PA ABLE account. Previously, eligibility required the disability to occur before age 26. PA ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities and their families to save up to $19,000 per year tax-free without impacting important benefits. For veterans, savings and investments in PA ABLE accounts do not impact VA benefits. Funds can be used for expenses such as housing, health care, transportation and assistive technology. Contributions are deductible on state income taxes, and qualified withdrawals are exempt from state and federal income taxes. Food, Fun and Farming: PA Farm Show Set for Jan. 10-17
Hundreds of exhibits and an array of delicious food will be featured at the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show, Jan. 10-17 in Harrisburg. It’s a celebration of our commonwealth’s rich farming tradition and a lot of fun for families. In line with America’s 250th birthday, this year’s Farm Show “Growing a Nation” theme recognizes Pennsylvania’s leading role in our nation’s founding and future. Information is available to plan your visit, view the daily schedule and maps, and more. If you’ve never been to the Farm Show, check out the Frequently Asked Questions page. General admission is free. Jan. 31 Deadline for High School Seniors to Apply for America250PA Scholarships
High school seniors have until Jan. 31 to apply for $10,000 scholarships as part of the America250PA celebration. Twenty-five scholarships will be awarded throughout six regions to commonwealth high school seniors planning to attend a Pennsylvania college or university in the 2026-27 academic year. More than three dozen schools will match the $10,000 if the student chooses their institution. You can learn more and apply here. National Human Trafficking Awareness Month
Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the top 10 states for reported human trafficking cases. Over the past five years, 1,235 human-trafficking offenses were filed in 366 cases. The General Assembly has enacted several laws in recent years to combat this abuse in which people profit from the exploitation of others. You can find more statistics and ways to identify possible human trafficking in your community here. Local Events
Saturday, January 10-17: 2026 PA Farm Show Saturday, January 10, 6pm: Owl Prowl Saturday, January 17, 11am-1:30pm: Chicken Pot Pie Saturday, January 17, 5:30pm: America250 Kickoff Thursday, January 22-24: Lebanon County Home Show Friday, January 23, 4pm: LCBA Winter Wine & Craft Show Friday, February 13-22: Lititz Fire & Ice Festival
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