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In this Update:
York County Strong – Listen To Senator Kristin and I Discuss Shared Priorities
I had the pleasure of joining Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (28th District) on the Kristin’s Corner podcast where we discussed regulatory reform, limiting government, and fiscal responsibility. I stand firm on the belief that if we get government out of the way, people and businesses can prosper here. Listen to how our shared priorities can strengthen York County and Pennsylvania on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Recognizing Northern York High School FFA Members
I was honored to visit Northern York High School where I presented Gifford Pinchot FFA students with certificates for the FFA Blue Jacket and prestigious Keystone State Degree. Twelve students received the FFA Blue Jacket certificate which symbolizes unity, pride and the future of agriculture. Six students received the Keystone State Degree. This is the highest degree an FFA member can receive at the state level and requires earning prior degrees, hours of community service, participation in FFA activities, demonstration of leadership skills, being an advocate for agriculture and acquiring hundreds of hours of agricultural experience. The future of Pennsylvania agriculture is bright and these students are leading the way. Congratulations! Local Government Commission and Capitol Preservation Committee Appointments
I am pleased to announce my appointments by Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward to the Local Government Commission and Capitol Preservation Committee. My work with the Local Government Commission, one of the oldest agencies of its kind, will entail serving as a resource to legislators on issues affecting local government, assisting standing committees, providing details on acts signed into law, reviewing intergovernmental agreements, and providing opportunities for local government organizations to address concerns. I am also excited to be a part of the Capitol Preservation Committee whose focus is to preserve and restore the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Rich in history, priceless murals, ornate architecture, gold leafing and so much more, our state Capitol ranks as one of the most beautiful in the nation and I am proud to be a part of preserving it for future generations. These appointments will expire on February 4, 2027. Senate Concludes First Week of Budget Hearings
The Senate Appropriations Committee began public hearings last week on the proposed 2025-26 state budget. Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget plan would increase state spending by more than $3.6 billion, or about 7.5% above the current year’s budget. During the next five years, using realistic spending and revenue estimates, Shapiro’s spending plans would leave a $27.3 billion hole in the state’s finances. Among the highlights: The Department of Revenue hearing focused on the inflated revenues Gov. Josh Shapiro used to balance his spending proposal. Revenue Secretary Pat Browne confirmed the state is only expected to bring in approximately $47.5 billion in revenue under existing law. Balancing Shapiro’s budget would require elimination of the state’s entire existing fund balance of nearly $3 billion and a transfer of $1.6 billion from the state’s emergency savings, known as the Rainy Day Fund. Following his plan would cause serious financial issues. At the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) budget hearing, the committee sought information about how PASSHE is working to right-size the system given steep declines in enrollment and to minimize student debt. The new Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, made possible by the support of Senate Republicans, provides $25 million in funding for students earning degrees and completing job training programs in high-demand industries. The State Police budget hearing highlighted Shapiro’s budget proposal for the State Police that would slow the phase-out from the Motor License Fund, making $375 million less available for road and bridge repairs. There were also questions about how the State Police would handle Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. At the Department of Health budget hearing, members shared health-focused concerns regarding Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. While most doctors prescribe fewer than 100 medical marijuana certifications, three doctors prescribed more than 11,000. Access to health care, particularly in rural areas where hospitals have been closed, was also discussed. Thursday’s hearings included the Department of State and the Department of Transportation. Find the hearings schedule, livestreams of budget hearings, daily recaps and video from prior hearings at PASenateGOP.com.
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