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In this Update:
A Future Without School Property Taxes: Join the Conversation
Are skyrocketing school property taxes weighing down your budget? For many homeowners in Pennsylvania, the answer is yes. That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 962, alongside House Bill 1649 introduced by Rep. Wendy Fink, to eliminate school property taxes and replace them with a fairer, more stable funding system. The plan is designed to provide real relief for homeowners, improve affordability, and ensure strong, reliable funding for our schools and educators. I invite you to attend our School Property Tax Elimination Town Hall to learn more and ask questions. I am co-hosting this event with Rep. Fink, Rep. Mike Jones and Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Golden Connections Community Center, 20 Gotham Place, Red Lion. Residents are encouraged to RSVP by calling 717-244-9232 or visiting this link. This is your opportunity to understand how the proposal could affect your household and share your thoughts. I hope you’ll join us and be part of this important conversation about delivering meaningful property tax relief. Celebrating Athletes at the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Indoor Winter Games
What a great experience attending the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Indoor Winter Games at the York Expo Center this past weekend, where bowling and floorball athletes from across the commonwealth came together to compete, celebrate their achievements and demonstrate incredible determination. It was inspiring to see these athletes showcase months of hard work and dedication while being cheered on by families, volunteers and supporters. Thank you to the amazing people who make these games possible and for the opportunity to be a part of this day! Get Ready to Shine a Light on Government Transparency
Sunshine Week runs from March 15-21 and highlights the importance of transparency, accountability and access to public information at every level of government. It serves as a reminder that transparency benefits everyone by strengthening public trust and encouraging active participation in our system of government. I strongly believe that government works best when citizens know what is happening and have access to information about the decisions that affect their communities. As your senator, I remain committed to supporting transparent processes, clear communication and access to public records so residents can stay informed. Shine a spotlight on your right to know! Click here to learn more about Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act and Right-to-Know laws. Senate Budget Hearings Examine Spending Details, Transportation Issues and More
The Senate Appropriations Committee wrapped up two weeks of public hearings on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s $53.3 billion proposed state budget, which would increase spending by $2.7 billion, or 5.4%. At the hearings with the Budget Office and Department of Revenue, committee members raised concerns about the level of spending, inefficiencies in state government and the potential consequences of irresponsible budgeting. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s questionable management of public transit and infrastructure projects was the focus of its hearing with the committee. Lawmakers pressed the agency not only on project oversight but also on the growth of funding held in certain accounts and the lack of transparency surrounding how those dollars are being spent. The Public Utility Commission oversees more than 8,000 entities which provide utility services across the state. Committee members raised concerns that Gov. Shapiro’s approach to energy is leading to higher costs for Pennsylvania consumers, while subsidizing lower energy prices in other states in the region. Committee members focused on how State System of Higher Education universities are working to improve enrollment and efficiency. The panel took testimony from the presidents of Millersville, East Stroudsburg and West Chester universities and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. You can find complete recaps and videos of each hearing here. Bill to Ease Shortage in Long-Term Care Workers Approved by Senate
To help alleviate Pennsylvania’s serious shortage of long-term care workers, the Senate approved legislation to allow high school juniors and seniors to earn graduation credit by working or volunteering in these settings so they can consider a career in this crucial field. Health care leaders and senior advocates strongly support Senate Bill 116 because while Pennsylvania’s population over the age of 65 is expected to nearly double by 2040, the number of long-term care professionals declined by 14% from 2019 to 2022. This bill is part of a bipartisan package aimed at strengthening the long-term care workforce. Along with Senate Bill 114 and Senate Bill 115, it awaits action in the House of Representatives. Family Caregivers Can Find Help Through State Support Program
Caring for a loved one is rewarding but also challenging. If you or someone you know could use some help, the state Caregiver Support Program could be the answer. The state Caregiver Support Program provides relief through respite care, education and financial assistance for eligible unpaid caregivers. Each caregiver is assigned a care manager who will come to the home, conduct a comprehensive assessment of the needs of the caregiver, provide support and work with them to develop a care plan. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply, and find other caregiver resources, from the Department of Aging. Online Filing Option Available for PA Personal Income Taxes
If you’re working on your taxes, keep in mind you can file your Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax return online for free through the myPATH portal. It includes automatic calculators, instant confirmation and secure payment options. You can access many features directly from the myPATH homepage without needing to create a username or password. Additional options are offered exclusively to users who opt to create an account. Learn more from the state Department of Revenue. Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
Pennsylvania is one of the top states in the nation for veteran-owned small businesses. These men and women served our nation and are now providing jobs and economic vitality in our communities. Please keep an eye out for veteran-owned businesses in our area. If you’re a veteran looking to start or expand a business, you can find state and federal resources here. PennDOT Roadwork Schedules for Cumberland and York Counties
As we move into the winter months, PennDOT road work schedules are released less frequently. To ensure you stay informed, we will share PennDOT news releases about specific construction projects planned in our senatorial district. Because these updates are issued based on project timelines, the information at the link may not change each week, and it may not include every project or reflect the latest conditions. We hope these updates help you plan ahead, avoid delays and travel safely throughout the season. |
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