|
|||
|
In this Update:
Strengthening Local Planning Through Smarter Development Policies
Building stronger communities starts with smart planning. As our communities grow, we must ensure the infrastructure is in place to support new homes, businesses and economic development. That is why I am pleased to share that Senate Bill 1287, legislation I sponsored, passed the Senate with unanimous bipartisan support. Current law requires developers to demonstrate adequate water service for proposed subdivisions and land developments, but it does not specify when that information must be provided. Senate Bill 1287 closes that gap by requiring proof of water service availability before final development approval is granted. The bill does not create any new requirements; it simply ensures municipalities receive critical water service information before making final decisions. By giving local officials the information they need at the right time, this legislation promotes responsible growth, protects public health and helps ensure reliable water infrastructure is available to support our communities for generations to come. Removing Government Barriers to Homeownership
Government should not be an obstacle to homeownership. That is why I am pleased to report that Senate Bill 1236, my permitting reform legislation, recently passed the Pennsylvania Senate. This common-sense measure helps make government work better for homeowners, builders and local governments by ensuring that when a small-scale home construction project qualifies for a permit waiver under federal law, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will grant that waiver. Importantly, this bill does not weaken or change any existing environmental protections. Instead, it eliminates unnecessary regulatory delays that can increase costs, create uncertainty and slow development. By providing a more efficient, consistent and predictable permitting process, the bill helps projects move forward without unnecessary government red tape. At a time when affordable housing remains a challenge for many families, reducing avoidable delays is an important step toward expanding housing opportunities across Pennsylvania. Senate Bill 1236 supports responsible development while helping communities meet their housing needs more effectively. Exploring York County’s Agricultural and Industrial Heritage
I recently had the opportunity to tour the Agricultural & Industrial Museum at the York County History Center and learn more about York County’s rich farming and manufacturing history. Housed in a former factory complex, the museum features two floors of exhibits that showcase more than 300 years of transportation, agriculture, manufacturing and industry in York County. One of the things that makes the museum especially unique is its hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. Guests can explore an interactive dairy exhibit, climb aboard historic transportation artifacts, try an old telephone switchboard and learn about the history of the Pfaltzgraff Company and its role in the industrialization of pottery making in America. Cumberland County Satellite Office Open This Thursday
Please stop by my satellite office this Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lower Allen Township Municipal Services Center, 2233 Gettysburg Road, Camp Hill, to receive assistance with a wide range of state services, including property tax/rent rebates, PennDOT paperwork, birth and death certificates and veterans services, or simply to say hello. This satellite office is part of my ongoing effort to make state services more accessible and provide convenient, local support for residents of the 31st District. Good Things Are Happening Across Our Region
I recently joined The Gary Sutton Show to highlight several positive developments taking place across our region, including the opening of the Beating the Odds Recovery and Veterans Services Center in Lemoyne and efforts to enhance quality of life and workforce retention in York County. Our conversation focused on the investments, partnerships and community initiatives helping make our area an even better place to live, work and raise a family. Senate Approves Bills to Make Housing More Attainable Across PA
The Senate acted to help alleviate Pennsylvania’s growing housing shortage by approving three bills, including my Senate Bill 1236 mentioned in the article above, to expand access to housing while eliminating unnecessary regulatory delays. In addition to my bill, Senate Bill 1279 creates a Housing Development Regulatory Compliance Officer to improve coordination and efficiency in the permitting process. Senate Bill 1281 empowers local governments to streamline approval processes using uniform housing plans, helping reduce delays and cut unnecessary red tape. These reforms reduce several of the barriers contributing to Pennsylvania’s housing shortage, helping create more opportunities for homeownership while giving communities the flexibility to encourage growth in a way that reflects local needs and priorities. The bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. Cellphone Law to Reduce Distracted Driving Takes Full Effect
After a one-year warning period, a state law aimed at reducing distracted driving is now enforceable. The law prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light or other delays. Drivers can still use their phones to alert authorities in the event of an emergency and use hands-free technology to make phone calls, use a GPS and listen to music. Drivers convicted of using a hand-held device while driving will pay a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees. Protecting Yourself During Tick Season
Pennsylvania recorded more than 18,700 cases of Lyme disease in 2025, and the Centers for Disease Control estimates the true number may be much higher due to underreporting. Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses can cause serious long-term health complications, particularly when left untreated. Nearly 55% of ticks tested in Pennsylvania were found to carry at least one tick-borne pathogen, and blacklegged ticks have now been identified in all 67 counties. You can protect yourself by using repellent, avoiding brushy areas and checking your body and pets after outdoor activities. Learn more about protecting yourself from ticks here. 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. |
|||
|
|||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2026 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorkeefer.com | Privacy Policy |
