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In this Update:
Celebrating Community and Agriculture at the York State Fair
The York State Fair is a summer tradition that brings together agriculture, family fun and communities from across the region. A few weeks ago, I asked you to vote for your favorite fair food, and funnel cake was the clear winner. During my visit to the fair, I made sure to enjoy the top pick while taking in all the activities and traditions that make the event special each year. I also got to meet with constituents, including Marissa Livingston, who earned fourth place in her division with her goat, and Haley Ross of Cedar Hills Farm, Wellsville, who showcased her beef cattle. Thank you to everyone who participated in the poll, stopped by to say hello and helped make this year’s York State Fair another great success. Remembering the Sacrifice of Korean War Veterans
Korean War Armistice Day serves as an important reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the more than 1.7 million Americans who served during the Korean War. This past week, I was grateful for the opportunity to attend the 73rd Commemoration Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice at the Shiloh American Legion 791 in Dover, where I joined Korean War veterans, members of the Korean American community and local leaders in honoring those who served. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to recognize the bravery and dedication of these veterans and reflect on the lasting impact of their service in defending freedom. Their sacrifices should never be forgotten. Encouraging Civic Engagement Through Education
As part of the America 250-themed summer camp hosted by Mechanicsburg Learning Center at Northern Elementary, students had the opportunity to learn more about our nation’s history, government and the role citizens play in their communities. I appreciated the invitation to speak with the students about my work as a state senator and what inspired me to serve. Their questions and enthusiasm for learning about state government were a great reminder of the importance of encouraging civic engagement at a young age. Bringing Valuable Services Directly to Residents
Thank you to everyone who came out for the Document Shredding and Damaged License Plate Replacement event Rep. Thomas Kutz and I hosted at Mechanicsburg Middle School. This drive-thru event provided residents with a convenient way to safely dispose of personal documents and address vehicle license plate needs. Providing resources like this is an important part of staying connected with our community and helping residents. I appreciate everyone who participated, as well as the volunteers, staff and members of the Upper Allen Police Department who helped keep the event running smoothly. A New Approach to Funding Pennsylvania Public Schools
Pennsylvania’s public education system relies too heavily on school property taxes, placing the burden primarily on homeowners and renters. My School Property Tax Elimination Act would eliminate these taxes and replace them with a broader-based model where everyone who buys taxable goods and services in Pennsylvania helps support education. My proposal would replace school property taxes with increases of 1.88% for the personal income tax and 2% for the sales and use tax. This creates a more balanced and predictable funding system, while giving Pennsylvanians more control over their tax burden instead of facing annual school property tax increases that can occur regardless of your ability to pay. Join me at one of my upcoming School Property Tax Elimination Town Halls to learn more about this proposal, ask questions and discuss the future of education funding in Pennsylvania.
Senate Stands with Attorney General, District Attorneys, State Troopers and Police
Second-degree murder is a horrific crime – these are homicides committed while the defendant was also committing another violent felony such as rape, arson, robbery, burglary or kidnapping. Those who commit such an act deserve a punishment that matches. In March, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that our current sentencing structure for second-degree murder (life without parole in every case) is unconstitutional. The justices gave the General Assembly 120 days to enact legislation correcting the situation. The Senate successfully passed strong bipartisan legislation to address this issue – twice. The Senate’s legislation is supported by Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday, Pennsylvania District Attorneys, the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association and the Pennsylvania State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police. Unfortunately, the leadership in the House of Representatives refused to allow a vote on this bipartisan legislation, instead passing a weak bill on a near party-line vote. That bill has several serious problems, including the fact that it could allow more than half of all inmates, including those on death row, to qualify for release from prison under an overbroad, ill-defined “medical release” program that is riddled with loopholes. It makes no sense. I will continue fighting for a strong, common-sense response to the Supreme Court’s decision because the safety of our communities is at stake. Measure Cracking Down on “CDL Mills” Becomes Law
Legislation drafted after it was learned unauthorized commercial driver’s license (CDL) schools were operating in Pennsylvania is now law, significantly boosting penalties for these “CDL mills.” Act 50 of 2026 increases the maximum civil penalty for operating an unauthorized CDL school from $2,500 to $25,000, giving the state Department of Education a stronger enforcement tool to stop illegal operations and discourage violations. The new law does not impact private employers that provide CDL training to their own employees at no cost. The Senate also passed Senate Bill 1295 and Senate Bill 1296 to reinforce tractor trailer safety in the commonwealth. The legislative package reflects new federal regulations and federal legislation to strengthen commercial vehicle operations following allegations of unqualified truck drivers in the country illegally. Read more about improving commercial vehicle safety here. Nominate a Non-Teaching School Employee for a RISE Award
Non-teaching school employees – including paraprofessional, clerical, transportation, food service, custodial, security and health workers – play key roles in keeping our local schools running. If you know an incredible non-teaching employee, you can nominate them for a Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award. Find details and a nomination form at the state Department of Education website. Nominations for 2026 close Aug. 30. Recognizing the Sacrifice Behind the Purple Heart
On Friday, Aug. 7, our nation will observe Purple Heart Day, a time to honor the brave men and women of our armed forces who were wounded or killed while serving our country. The Purple Heart is one of the military’s most respected honors, representing the courage, sacrifice and dedication of those who made extraordinary sacrifices in defense of our freedoms. As we approach Purple Heart Day, we remember the service members who earned this distinguished recognition and the families who supported them. Their willingness to serve in the face of danger reflects the highest ideals of duty and patriotism. I encourage everyone to take time on Aug. 7 to honor Purple Heart recipients and recognize the sacrifices they made for our nation. PennDOT Roadwork Schedules for Cumberland and York Counties
Please see the latest PennDOT road work schedules provided to my office. These updates are issued periodically and may not include all projects or reflect the most current conditions. Additional updates are shared as they become available and posted on my Facebook page. If you have a road concern such as potholes, bridge issues or other roadway problems, you can report that information directly to PennDOT through the Customer Care Center form. I hope this information helps you plan your travel and avoid delays. |
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