Senator Keefer E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • Make Your Voice Count in Local Government
  • A Closer Look at Key Priorities and the State Budget
  • Town Hall on School Property Tax Elimination Set for East Manchester
  • Keeping Our Families and Communities Safe
  • Student Teachers Can Apply for Assistance Through PA Support Program
  • You Can Help Deliver Senior Services in Our Area
  • PennDOT Roadwork Schedules for Cumberland and York Counties

Make Your Voice Count in Local Government

April 22 marks Local Government Day in Pennsylvania, a reminder of the important role local officials play in shaping daily life. From community development and public safety to decisions that affect how we live and do business, local government has a direct impact on every resident.

One way you can participate in your local government is by attending county commissioner meetings. In Cumberland County, meetings are held every other Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at the Cumberland County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Carlisle, in the Board of Commissioners Hearing Room, and are also available online via Zoom.

For those in York County, meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the first and third Wednesday and, when applicable, the fifth Wednesday of each month in the Commissioners Meeting Room on the second floor of the York County Administrative Center, 28 E. Market St., York.

My satellite office is also located in the York County Commissioners suite and is open every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Stop by and say hello. We want to hear from you.

For township, borough and city meetings, residents should check their local municipality website for schedules and information. Staying engaged helps strengthen transparency, accountability and the future of our communities.

A Closer Look at Key Priorities and the State Budget

In a recent appearance on The Gary Sutton Show, I had the opportunity to discuss two of my top legislative priorities: the REINS Act and the Taxpayer Protection Act. Both proposals are focused on strengthening government accountability, increasing transparency and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.

We also covered key aspects of the state budget, including ongoing challenges and the decisions ahead that will impact families, businesses and communities across Pennsylvania.

Take a listen to gain a deeper understanding of these important issues and what they mean for our commonwealth.

Town Hall on School Property Tax Elimination Set for East Manchester

School property taxes continue to place a growing burden on Pennsylvania families, increasing each year with no end in sight. To address this, Rep. Wendy Fink and I have introduced the School Property Tax Elimination Act and want to share our proposal with you.

We invite you to join us for a town hall on this issue on April 30 from 5-7 p.m. at Alert Fire Hall, 3118 N. George St., Emigsville. The event will be hosted by Rep. Joe D’Orsie, Rep. Fink, former Rep. Frank Ryan and myself.

Even a recent analysis by the Independent Fiscal Office confirms that our School Property Tax Elimination Act would boost business investment while providing immediate relief to families.

This town hall is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions and share your perspective. Residents are encouraged to RSVP by calling Rep. D’Orsie’s office at 717-840-4711 or registering online.

Keeping Our Families and Communities Safe

A year ago this month, the Senate took decisive action on several bills to keep our families and communities safe. Among the bills we passed are Senate Bill 92, known as Tyler’s Law, to impose tougher penalties on drug dealers who sell fentanyl resulting in a fatal overdose; Senate Bill 490 to prohibit non-monetary bail for the most dangerous individuals; and Senate Bill 347 to prohibit so-called “safe injection sites” — which endanger our neighborhoods in Pennsylvania.

I remain committed to supporting policies that protect our neighborhoods and the people who call them home.

Student Teachers Can Apply for Assistance Through PA Support Program

Planning to be a student teacher in 2026-27? The Student Teacher Support Program provides financial assistance in return for help alleviating Pennsylvania’s pressing teacher shortage.

It provides $10,000 to eligible student teachers and up to $2,500 to teachers who mentor them. Recipients must commit to teaching in Pennsylvania for three years following the completion of their teaching certification.

Selection will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis based on when the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency receives a completed student application. Learn more and apply here.

You Can Help Deliver Senior Services in Our Area

Delivering meals, being a senior companion and other roles are open to volunteers of all ages and abilities with the state Aging Services Network.

You can learn new skills, make friends and help others through these programs:

  • Medicare Insurance Counseling
  • Ombudsman Program
  • Home-Delivered and Congregate Meals
  • Senior Companion Program
  • Foster Grandparent Program
  • Retired Senior Volunteer Program
  • Family Caregiver Support Program
  • Health and Wellness
  • Senior Community Centers

Find out more and apply online here or contact the local Area Agency on Aging to see where help is needed in our area.  

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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