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In this Update:
Celebrating Pennsylvania’s Best: Big 33 Athletes Shine at the Capitol
The Pennsylvania Capitol was filled with energy and pride as we hosted the 2026 Big 33 Football Classic Celebration, honoring remarkable student athletes from across Pennsylvania. I was proud to recognize our football players, cheerleaders, buddies and coaches for their outstanding achievements both on and off the field. Their dedication, leadership and sportsmanship embody the very best of high school athletics in our commonwealth. During the celebration, I also had the opportunity to meet a few constituents participating in Big 33, including Marcus Yeager, a football player from Trinity High School; Kaitlyn Croftcheck, a cheerleader from Commonwealth Charter Academy; Ally Caiazzo, a cheerleader from Red Land High School; and Ryan Dively, a cheerleader from Red Land High School. Congratulations to all those selected for this year’s roster. I look forward to cheering you on at the Big 33 Football Classic on May 24 at Cumberland Valley High School. Connecting With County Leaders Across Pennsylvania
As chair of the Senate Local Government Committee, I had the opportunity to host members of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) for a luncheon during their legislative conference. It was a great opportunity to connect with county leaders from across the commonwealth and discuss the important issues facing local governments and the communities they serve. Following the luncheon, CCAP members joined me in the Senate chamber, where I recognized them as my guests during session. County officials play a vital role in delivering essential services and supporting strong, vibrant communities, and I appreciate their continued commitment to public service. Discussing Housing Affordability at the Greater Harrisburg Realtors Legislative Breakfast
I recently participated in the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors legislative breakfast for a thoughtful panel discussion focused on one of the most pressing issues facing our communities — housing affordability. The annual event brought together state lawmakers, industry professionals and community leaders to exchange ideas and perspectives on the challenges shaping today’s housing market, including the need for practical solutions to increase housing availability and improve affordability. By engaging with realtors and stakeholders, we can better understand barriers to development and identify opportunities to support responsible growth while preserving the character of our communities. Celebrating Service at the Lower Allen Fire Company No. 1 Annual Banquet
I was pleased to join Lower Allen Fire Company No. 1 for their annual awards and appreciation banquet, celebrating 93 years of dedicated service to our community. The evening was a meaningful reminder of the commitment, teamwork and sacrifice that go into keeping our neighborhoods safe. Special recognition was given to two members, who have each given more than 50 years of service to the fire company. Their commitment, courage and integrity have strengthened both the department and the community, setting a lasting example for others to follow. Also honored was Rep. Sheryl Delozier for her 18 years of service and support to the fire company and community. Her commitment to public safety, strong leadership and continued advocacy have helped ensure Lower Allen Fire Company is prepared to answer every call. I am grateful for the men and women who dedicate themselves to serving our community and proud to celebrate those who help keep us safe. 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. Senate Approves Measure to Protect Children from Harmful AI Chats
The Senate approved legislation to establish commonsense safeguards for children interacting with artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The bill will be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Bill 1090 would require robust, age-appropriate safeguards to prevent content generation that encourages self-harm, suicide or violence against others, and directs users to appropriate self-harm crisis resources whenever high-risk language is detected. Heartbreaking stories have been reported of vulnerable individuals, including minors, who have used AI chatbots to cope with trauma, mental health, depression and anxiety. Multiple families have alleged in lawsuits that chatbot responses contributed to their teen’s death by suicide. Legislation Expanding First Responder Training Passed by Senate
Legislation to help alleviate the shortage of emergency responder instructors across Pennsylvania was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 782 would allow retired public school and state employees who previously worked part-time as certified EMS, fire or police instructors to return to that work without losing their pension benefits. Retirees would not earn additional benefits. The measure was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Senate Acts to Protect Vehicle Choice in Pennsylvania
Legislation preserving Pennsylvanians’ ability to choose their preferred vehicle by prohibiting state mandates on specific vehicle purchases was approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 990 protects consumer choice, encourages innovation and helps prevent higher costs associated with uniform mandates. The bill supports a comprehensive approach to transportation that includes gas and diesel-powered vehicles, hybrids, electric vehicles and emerging technologies, allowing new advancements to develop and compete. The bill was sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Shooting Range Improvement Program Accepting Applications
Shooting ranges and related organizations open for public use have until May 8 to apply for state grants for development and renovation work that helps ensure community access to safe ranges. Related organizations include shooting clubs, recreational shooting organizations, archery clubs and education groups. Public use of facilities includes public range times, educational outreach/trainings or organized shooting competitions. Retail ranges are not eligible to apply for this program. Each Pennsylvania Game Commission region will receive at least one project. Learn about eligible projects and how to apply 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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