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In this Update:
Bill of Rights Day: Protecting Our Freedoms
Monday, Dec. 15, marks Bill of Rights Day, commemorating the 1791 ratification of the first 10 amendments to the Constitution — a vital shield against government overreach that protects inherent rights such as free speech, religious liberty, assembly and the right to bear arms. At a time of seemingly ever-expanding federal and state influence, I am dedicated to upholding these principles by championing online free speech, safeguarding gun rights and curbing bureaucracy. On this day and every day, let us share, discuss and remain vigilant in preserving America’s liberties together. You can learn more about the Bill of Rights here. Honoring Three Fallen Heroes of Northern York County Regional Police
I recently had the profound honor of presenting Pennsylvania Senate Citations to the Northern York County Regional Police Department (NYCRPD) in memory of residents of the 31st Senatorial District, Det. Isaiah Emenheiser and Det. Mark Baker, who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty on Sept. 17, 2025. Det. Emenheiser faithfully served his community and his country, first as a United States Secret Service agent and later through two decades of service with the NYCRPD. He specialized in accident reconstruction, served as a field training officer and earned numerous honors, including Officer of the Year, the Statewide Top Municipal Officer Award, the Medal of Merit and the Lifesaving Award. Beyond his professional achievements, he was known as a devoted husband, father, coach and community member. Det. Baker dedicated more than 21 years to the department after beginning his law enforcement career with the Philadelphia Police Department. A U.S. Army military police veteran, he pioneered the department’s forensics program, served on the highway patrol and spent 15 years as a detective. His expertise extended to serving on an FBI task force and teaching computer forensics. He was also a committed community volunteer, Scout leader, participant in pet therapy programs and avid outdoorsman with a passion for Philadelphia sports. In addition, Det. Sgt. Cody Becker, who also lost his life on Sept. 17, was honored with a Pennsylvania Senate Citation presented by his senator, Sen. Kristin Phillips Hill. She presented the citation to the NYCRPD in recognition of his service and ultimate sacrifice. I am truly grateful for his dedication and service. The loss of these three dedicated public servants is a profound tragedy for their families, their colleagues and the entire Northern York County community. Their courage, commitment and sacrifice represent the very best of law enforcement. My deepest condolences go out to all who knew and loved them. May their legacy continue to guide and inspire us. Celebrate the Season at My Holiday Open House
Join me and my staff for a festive evening at our Holiday Open House on Thursday, Dec. 11, from 5 to 7 p.m. at my Dillsburg district office, 12 N. Baltimore Street. Stop by to tour the office, learn about the services we provide and enjoy some seasonal treats. It’s a perfect opportunity to share a little holiday cheer and make the season merry and bright. We look forward to celebrating with you! Don’t Miss Our School Property Tax Elimination Town Hall
Your voice matters! Join us on Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kittanning Township Volunteer Fire Department, 13126 U.S. Rt. 422 in Kittanning, for a discussion on eliminating school property taxes. Rep. Josh Bashline is hosting this town hall, and Rep. Wendy Fink and I will be there to discuss our legislation to end school property taxes. This is your chance to learn the details, ask questions and share your input. If you have friends or family in western Pennsylvania, please share this event with them so they can join the town hall. Seats are limited, so RSVP to Rep. Bashline’s office at 724-954-3613. Wreaths Across America Events
On Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m., I will join Wreaths Across America at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in New Cumberland to honor veterans by participating in a brief ceremony, followed by the laying of wreaths at all 518 veterans’ graves. Wreaths Across America and Sen. Devlin Robinson will host an event in the Main Rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol Building on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 9:30 a.m. to honor those who serve and remember those who gave their lives in service. The event will launch hundreds of Wreaths Across America ceremonies across the commonwealth to remember and honor veterans by laying wreaths on their headstones on Dec. 13. For more details and a map with all of the Wreaths Across America ceremonies, click here. PA Budget Squanders Taxpayer Dollars and Lacks Accountability
The 2025-26 Pennsylvania budget fails to address inefficiencies and accountability in state programs. One in eight Pennsylvanians rely on SNAP benefits, yet waste and fraud continue to divert resources from families who need them most. Instead of implementing meaningful reforms or tighter oversight, the administration continues to expand spending on a system in need of accountability. At the same time, the governor’s office secured $3 million for social media initiatives, including TikTok videos and selfies, while budgets that support veterans and agriculture were cut. By the end of the year, this budget will have exhausted all reserve funds and tapped nearly every other fund to cover bloated spending, leaving taxpayers responsible for $7 billion in recurring costs with no recurring revenue to match. Pennsylvanians deserve a budget that prioritizes fiscal responsibility, accountability and respects taxpayers. This plan kicks the can down the road and leaves taxpayers to pick up an even heavier tab later. Look Out for Scams, Fraud and Theft During the Holiday Season
The holiday shopping season is prime opportunity for scams, fraud and theft. Some of the most common scams to be on the lookout for include bait-and-switch scams, skimming devices and fraudulent “cybersquatting” websites. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday offered several tips to prevent scammers from taking advantage when shopping online:
The Attorney General’s Office has set up a Scams Complaint Form residents can fill out should they encounter any scams. The FBI also provides tips on how to avoid holiday scams and identify skimming devices, which are estimated to cost consumers and financial institutions more than $1 billion per year. 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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