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In this Update:
Voter ID and Election Integrity
This week, I had the opportunity to speak with Dennis Owens from abc27 about Voter ID and election integrity. There is nothing more important than implementing real, commonsense measures to protect the integrity of our elections. One illegal vote is one too many. You can watch my interview here: https://www.abc27.com/pennsylvania-politics/tear-the-whole-system-down-pennsylvania-republicans-want-save-act-of-their-own/ Senate Acts to Protect Workers’ Compensation for First Responders
The Senate approved legislation to ensure volunteer fire and EMS personnel are covered by workers’ compensation if injured participating in the fundraising activities essential for covering the costs of providing public safety. A 1980 court decision held that firefighters injured at their annual fundraising picnic were eligible for workers’ compensation because members were covered for all activities authorized by a municipality. However, current law does not provide the same coverage for the full scope of fundraising activities. Senate Bill 1053 would fill the gap, expressly providing workers’ compensation for volunteers’ participation in fundraising activities. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Legislation Giving Farmers More Vehicle Flexibility Approved by Senate
Cutting outdated regulations for farmers, the Senate approved a measure giving them greater flexibility to safely drive more farm vehicles on roadways at night, reflecting the real-world demands of modern farming. Current state law prohibits certain farm vehicles from driving on Pennsylvania roadways between sunset and sunrise. Senate Bill 203 would allow farmers to operate their vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger trucks, when their work demands it. The vehicles already maintain equipment required by the state to safely operate at night. Senate Bill 203 was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Meeting with Students from Lancaster County Career and Technology CenterI enjoyed meeting with students from the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center and hearing about their experiences with technical education. These young men and women are gaining valuable skills that will give them a head start in the workforce or in higher education. I strongly support career and technical education because there are so many in-demand jobs and too many employers struggling to find young people with the skills to fill them. Pennsylvania FFA Legislative BreakfastThis week, I enjoyed talking with local FFA students at the Pennsylvania FFA Legislative Breakfast. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to support our agricultural community and especially the next generation of leaders in agriculture. Remote Office Hours at Clay Township Building
Every Thursday, my office holds remote office hours at the Clay Township Building. Right now, we are helping seniors with the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program (PTRR). If you would like assistance with your application, please contact Tina from my office at 717-274-7705 to schedule an appointment. Guest Chaplains Invited to Open Senate Session with a Prayer
When the Senate gathers in Harrisburg to consider legislation, we open session with a non-denominational prayer delivered by a guest chaplain. Religious leaders from across the commonwealth have offered messages of peace, reflection and hope in this role for many years. If you are interested in visiting the state Capitol when the Senate convenes for a session day to take part in this time-honored tradition, please contact my office for more details. Religious leaders of all faiths are welcome to reach out about this opportunity. Interested in Law Enforcement? Check Out This State Police Program
If you are thinking about a future in law enforcement, consider participating in the Pennsylvania State Police Law and Leadership Academy, which offers a 15-week program to experience the process of becoming a cadet. Applicants age 18 and over with a high school diploma or GED can apply. The program covers:
The program runs from early May to early August at six locations statewide. Cadets meet twice a week, with occasional Saturday sessions. You can learn more here. Promoting Reading for Lifelong Success
March is National Reading Month – a time to encourage children, families and communities to make reading a daily habit. Studies show childhood reading difficulties often lead to long-term, negative effects throughout life. Working with our schools to help improve literacy is vital as we help the next generation build a strong educational foundation. As part of the current state budget, we established important evidence-based reading instruction requirements. With a concerted effort, we can dramatically improve students’ chances of success and instill the excitement that comes with fostering a love of reading from a young age. Local Events
Wednesday, March 25-28, 9am-4pm: Lancaster-Lebanon Quilt Show Saturday, March 28, 11am: 4th Annual Elks Reading Program in Honor of Lt. William Lebo Saturday, March 28, 9am-2pm: Lebanon High School Spring Craft Show Saturday, March 28, 2pm: Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 28, 9am: Easter Candy Scramble Saturday, April 4, 4pm: The Happy Gilmore Experience at Coleman Memorial Park Saturday, April 11, 5:15pm: Sound the Alarm Fundraiser for Bowmansville Fire Company
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