HARRISBURG – Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) welcomed a record-breaking 178 local high school students to the Pennsylvania State Capitol for her third annual student government seminar earlier today. This unique program provided students from southern York County with a hands-on opportunity to engage in the legislative process and gain firsthand insights into state government operations.
During the seminar, students were sworn into the roles of senators, participating in an immersive experience where they debated and voted on mock legislation. Through a structured committee process and general session, these young leaders had the chance to learn about lawmaking while collaborating with their peers and engaging with government officials.
“I am genuinely inspired by the enthusiasm of our local students. This program goes beyond teaching them about government; it sparks a deep interest in civic duty and empowers the next generation to step up as leaders in our community,” Phillips-Hill said. “The students debate on the very matters that are before the General Assembly and get to experience the deliberative process in getting a bill signed into law.”
At the conclusion of the event, the student senators successfully passed 6 bills and voted down 1 bill, reflecting their understanding of the legislative process and the importance of civic engagement.
Participating schools included Central York High School, Dallastown Area High School, Hanover Senior High School, Kennard-Dale High School, Red Lion Senior High School, Spring Grove Area High School, Susquehannock High School, and York Country Day School.
About Phillips-Hill’s Senator for a Day Program
The ‘Senator for a Day’ Program is an annual initiative hosted by Phillips-Hill in October designed to engage high school students in the legislative process and foster civic awareness among young leaders. The event allows local students to sponsor, debate, and vote on mock legislation that often mirrors current topics under consideration in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Legislative staff and government relations professionals assist in the event to share experiences and input with students on the lawmaking process.