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In this update:
Should a Chinese-based App Have Access to Data on State Government Devices and Networks?
The national debate over TikTok is intensifying, with a potential federal ban on the app going into effect Sunday, Jan. 19. Concerns about the app’s data collection practices and its ties to its China-based parent company, ByteDance, have raised significant questions about national security and user privacy. At the state level, I’ve reintroduced legislation to ban TikTok on all state-owned networks and devices as a proactive measure to strengthen Pennsylvania’s cybersecurity. Many states, including Texas, Virginia, and Utah, have already implemented similar bans, and Pennsylvania’s Treasury Department has taken action as well. I would like to hear your thoughts on these efforts to safeguard digital assets and protect sensitive information. Do you support these measures? Let me know by taking my survey here! 2025-26 Committee Assignments Announced
I am excited to announce my committee assignments for the 2025-26 legislative session. This session, I will serve as Vice Chair of the Senate Communications and Technology Committee, working to expand high-speed internet access and strengthen cybersecurity. I’ll also serve on the Banking and Insurance, Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, State Government, and Appropriations committees. Additionally, I will continue my roles with the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority and the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee, while continuing to serve as Senate Majority Caucus Chair. These roles allow me to tackle issues like government transparency, consumer protection, and economic growth while ensuring careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars. For the full announcement and details, visit here. Live from the 109th PA Farm Show
York County proudly ranks second in Pennsylvania for the number of farms, and agriculture remains our top industry. With this in mind, I was pleased to release a special podcast episode recorded at the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show! In this episode, I sat down with Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding to dive into the latest trends shaping farming in Pennsylvania. From the growing opportunities in agritourism to the challenges posed by energy projects, we covered a wide range of issues that impact our farmers and rural communities. We also explored educational initiatives, like those at York College, that are preparing the next generation to lead in agriculture. Listen on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube. If you missed the Farm Show or simply want to learn more about the future of farming in Pennsylvania, this episode is for you! You can see some highlights from the Farm Show like speaking with Kennady Laird about the latest on Pennsylvania FFA on my Facebook. Thank you to Secretary Redding for joining me and to everyone who made this year’s Farm Show a success! Have Your Say on PPL Transmission Line Projects in York County
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is hosting public input hearings on proposed transmission line projects in Chanceford, East Hopewell, and Hopewell townships. The hearings will take place on Tuesday, Feb.11, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Chanceford Township Municipal Office, located at 33 Muddy Creek Forks Road, Brogue. No pre-registration is required. Simply attend one of the sessions to share your thoughts and provide input on these infrastructure projects. For additional details, visit the PUC website here. Coming Soon: Farmers Breakfast Featuring a Special Keynote Speaker
Our annual Farmers Breakfast is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome a keynote speaker who will share valuable insights on important topics for our agricultural community. Sign up here to be the first to receive updates and all the event details. I look forward to seeing you there! PennDOT Contest for Students to Improve Roadway Safety
Studentsare invited to participate in the Innovations Challenge to help the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) increase awareness for seatbelt safety and improve driver behavior for the benefit of our roads. The challenge, which has an award of $6,000 for the winning team, encourages ninth- through twelfth-grade students to use their problem-solving, creative, and strategic-thinking abilities to resolve real-world transportation challenges. Regional winners will be invited to present their solutions to the PennDOT secretary and a panel of judges, who will determine the statewide cash prize winner. The submission deadline is Jan. 31. Gary Sutton Show is Back on the Airwaves
This week, I had the pleasure of attending a special event to celebrate the return of The Gary Sutton Show to our local airwaves. You can tune in to 1350 WOYK and 98.9 FM weekdays from 6 to 9 a.m. for the only local LIVE radio talk show in the area. Gary Sutton’s show has always been a source for engaging conversations, timely topics, and meaningful discussions on issues and topics of local interest. Looking forward to hearing his insights and interviews once again! REAL ID to be In Effect on May 7
Beginning May 7, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant license/identification card or other federally acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board domestic commercial flights or enter a military installation or federal facility that requires ID. To get a REAL ID, you must bring your documents to a driver licensing center for verification in person. Learn about the specific items that are required to be issued a REAL ID. The website also offers the option to pre-verify online if your documents are already on file with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. REAL ID is optional. It is not required to drive, vote, access hospitals, visit the post office, access federal courts, or apply for or receive federal benefits. Celebrating 90 Years!
Last weekend, I joined Mayor SueAnn Whitman, Rep. Kate Klunk, and York County Commissioner Julie Wheeler to celebrate two incredible milestones: the 90th anniversary of the Republican Club of Hanover and the 90th birthday of longtime member Dolores Zinneman. It was a wonderful event honoring both the club’s rich history and the dedication of members like Dolores who have contributed so much over the years. Explore Free Winter Activities at PA State Parks and Forests
Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests offer free, family-friendly events all year round, and winter is no exception! From snow walks and bird watching to night owl hikes and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Right here in York County, there are seasonal activities to explore, but it could also be the perfect excuse for a fun winter day trip! You can sort the event listings by in-person or virtual options and filter them by region and date to find the perfect activity. For added convenience, sign up to receive a weekly, personalized event digest tailored to your interests and schedule. Discover all the beauty and adventure our state parks and forests have to offer this winter! Honoring William “Bill” Hose’s Legacy of Service
This week, I joined in the celebration to honor William “Bill” Hose for his extraordinary contributions to York County. After 30 years of dedicated service as York City Police Chief and York County Sheriff, Bill has made an indelible impact on our community through his commitment to justice, safety, and mentorship. As he put it best, his legacy is built on simply “doing the right thing.” Congratulations, Bill, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your service to York County! Resources to Help You Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is a tough challenge, and it’s not just about breaking the addiction to nicotine. Everyone faces unique obstacles, and that’s why personalized resources are available to meet the needs of veterans, women, teens, older adults, and others. If you’re ready to take the first step, you can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669), text QUIT to 47848, or use the live chat feature at SmokeFree.gov. The website includes practical advice, including tips on how to create a quit plan, manage cravings, cope with stress, and more. There’s also support for those looking to stop using dip or vapes, as well as guidance on how to help a loved one who is trying to quit. No matter where you are in your journey, these tools and resources can help you succeed. Take the first step today! Jan. 20 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to advocating for peace and meaningful change. I hope we can all continue to honor his legacy by embracing his commitment to treating one another with respect, even when our perspectives differ. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation making the third Monday in January a federal holiday to honor Dr. King’s life and enduring impact. In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, our office will be closed on Monday, Jan. 20. Upcoming PennDOT Maintenance Projects
Most weeks, PennDOT provides me with its upcoming maintenance schedule. While my team and I aim to keep this information up to date, please note that the page may not always reflect the latest changes. For the most accurate details, I recommend checking back on Friday afternoons or over the weekend, as we usually receive updates from PennDOT on Fridays. You can view the full list here to see if any roadwork might impact you and your family.
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