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In this Update:
Save the Date: Free Upcoming EventsPlease join me for the following events I will be hosting this fall. You can RSVP by calling 717-274-6735 or online at https://senatorgebhard.com/events/. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Charlie KirkI am proud to join Sen. Doug Mastriano in introducing a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, whose dedication to civic activism, free speech, and open debate left a lasting impact on our nation. Charlie was a tireless advocate for free expression and civil discourse, particularly on college campuses where these principles have too often been under attack. By honoring Charlie’s life and work, we continue Pennsylvania’s long tradition as a defender of free speech. Charlie dedicated his life to advancing constitutional principles, civic engagement, and dialogue among young Americans. Now more than ever, it is vital that we reaffirm these values in our public discourse. Read the co-sponsor memo here. Pennsylvania March for Life – September 22On Monday, September 22, pro-life advocates from across the Commonwealth will gather at the State Capitol for the Pennsylvania March for Life. The day will begin with praise and worship at 10:00 a.m., followed by a rally at 11:00 a.m. and the march at noon. This year’s program will feature a number of inspiring speakers, including:
For more information about the event, visit www.MarchforLife.org/Pennsylvania. Whole Health Expo in HamburgI enjoyed stopping by the Whole Health Expo last weekend at The Wherehouse in Hamburg. It was a great opportunity to connect with community members and catch up with Mayor George Holmes. This free community event highlighted preventive health measures and valuable resources for overall wellness. Senate Votes to Help Relieve Long-Term Care Worker ShortageThe number of Pennsylvania residents ages 65 and over is expected to nearly double by 2040, but even now many nursing facilities are forced to take beds out of service because they can’t fill direct care positions. The Senate recently passed legislation to tackle this critical problem by making it easier for those seeking employment at long-term care centers while still ensuring employees are well-qualified. Senate Bill 114 would encourage more employees to join the long-term care workforce by expanding the availability of training courses for nurse aides and the eligibility for individuals to take the nurse aide competency exam. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Measure to Help Veteran-Owned Businesses Approved by SenateBeyond serving our nation in the military, many veterans create jobs through their entrepreneurial spirit. We approved legislation to promote these veteran-owned businesses. Senate Bill 64 would authorize the creation of a special logo to promote veteran-owned businesses. To be eligible, a business must be registered with the Department of State and at least 51% of the ownership interest must be held by a veteran, reservist or member of the National Guard. To discourage the logo from being used fraudulently, anyone who falsely claims to be a veteran to obtain this designation would face a misdemeanor of the third degree. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Fire and EMS Funding Assistance AvailableOur local fire and EMS companies are committed to saving lives and protecting property, so I’m pleased to announce they can apply now for assistance through the state Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grants program. The funding is available to volunteer or career fire, rescue and EMS organizations and can be used for facility improvements, equipment purchase and repair, debt reduction, training and certification, and more. The deadline to apply is Oct. 20. More information, important dates and the online application can be found here. Expanding Government Transparency with OpenBookPAThe Pennsylvania Treasury has launched an expanded portal for state government transparency, providing taxpayers with more tools to explore state finance details. OpenBookPA’s new features include:
Announced by Treasurer Stacy Garrity earlier this month, OpenBookPA also links to the Treasury Checkbook, which includes payments made by Treasury to vendors and the Contracts e-Library, which makes available state contracts, purchase orders and amendments valued at $5,000 or more for public review. Celebrating Our Precious U.S. ConstitutionNational Constitution Week runs through Sept. 23, commemorating the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, nine years after the Pennsylvania Constitution. Our nation’s most important document, the U.S. Constitution has provided Americans throughout history the power to maintain their liberties, freedoms and inalienable rights. Its stature is evident in the fact that every Pennsylvania legislator takes a solemn oath to “support, obey and defend” both constitutions as a condition for holding public office. Local EventsSaturday, September 20, 9am-2pm: Outdoor Exchange at PGC Headquarters Saturday, September 20, 6pm: Free Movie in the Park Tuesday, September 16-20: East Petersburg Days Saturday, September 20; 9am: Native Plant Exchange at Middle Creek Saturday, September 20; 10am-3pm: Crafternoon at Schuylkill Valley Community Library Saturday, September 20; 11-3pm: Fall Fest Thursday, September 25; 2-5pm: Cornwall Manor Trailside Harvest Fest 25 Saturday, September 227; 10am-7pm: Myerstown Community Block Party 25
*Please do not reply to this email, as that mailbox is unattended. To better serve the constituents of the 48th District, I have set up a contact form on my website. Please email cgebhard@pasen.gov if you would like to send me a message. If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or visit https://senatorgebhard.com/ |
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